3 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior lobby 1400 0x0x2250x3000 q85

4 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior community room 1400 0x0x3000x2491 q85

5 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior seating area graphic wall 1400 0x0x3000x2337 q85

6 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior computer lab technology 1400 0x0x3000x1688 q85

7 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior reading area 1400 0x0x3000x2002 q85

9 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior childrens reading 1400 0x0x3000x2018 q85

8 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior children reading 1400 0x0x3000x2451 q85

10 tskp meriden public library connecticut interior teen area 1400 0x0x3000x2002 q85

2 tskp meriden public library connecticut exterior entrance 1400 0x0x3000x1688 q85

1 tskp meriden public library connecticut exterior entrance 1400 0x0x3000x2002 q85

The library's mission is to provide a community center for educational and cultural activities, independent learning, and family literacy. On a limited budget, the design focused on the highest priorities, an expanded children's area, a dedicated teen room, and additional meeting rooms and collaborative spaces.

The Library was relocated to a temporary space in Meriden Mall during construction. With the completion of the project, the library was once again located in the heart of the downtown area, within walking distance for many lower-income residents. There has been a dramatic increase in visits, and the meeting rooms have been used heavily both during the day and after hours. In 2018, the library held 1,597 programs with an attendance of 8,928. After the renovation, from July 2023 - January 2024, the library held only 489 programs, but the attendance was 15,029. That is a 41% increase in patron attendance. Since reopening, the library was also able to add eight new staff members, which allowed it to expand its programming and invite more community members to the space. With the addition of a dedicated Teen Center and a Teen Librarian, a cohort of teenagers frequent the library after school and have built a good rapport with the Teen Librarian, which was impossible before the renovation.

Built in 1973, the 55,000 sq. ft. library still had its original mechanical and electrical systems, which were upgraded to energy-efficient systems. The roof was replaced, and skylights were introduced. The program reorganized library functions and interior space, and an outdoor Wifi equipped courtyard was added. The 5,600 sq. ft. addition on the southwest side of the existing building greatly expanded meeting facilities and multi-purpose rooms.