Finegold Alexander Architects celebrate ground breaking of J.V. Fletcher Library project

Westford, MA Finegold Alexander Architects reached a major milestone, celebrating the official groundbreaking for the renovation and expansion of the J.V. Fletcher Library project. The ceremony included speeches from senator John Cronin, state representative James Arciero, town manager Kristen Las, Westford selectboard member Thomas Clay, Library Trustee Foundation liaison Marianne Fleckner, MBLC commissioner Jessica Vilas, Building Committee vice chair Scott Hazelton and library director Ellen Rainville.

“Today’s symbolic spadeful marks the celebration of the next transformative chapter of the J.V. Fletcher Library as we usher in a versatile library design which will serve residents well into the 21^st century,” said Rainville.

Originally established in 1895, J.V. Fletcher Library is a $24.1 million project for Finegold Alexander, with Hutter Construction as the general contractor and CHA Consulting as owners’ project manager. To support the project, the town was awarded a base grant totaling $7,851,994 from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) as part of its Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program (MPLCP).

Finegold Alexander Architects’ vision for the JV Fletcher Library encompasses a thoughtful integration of historical preservation and modern functionality. The design preserves the library’s historic front facade, maintaining its timeless charm while creating a seamless transition into the 21^st century.

“We are honored to be entrusted with the renovation and expansion of the J.V. Fletcher Library for the community of Westford,” said Ellen Anselone, AIA, principal-in-charge. “Our design approach focuses on preserving the library’s heritage while enhancing its functionality and inviting atmosphere.”

The main entry level will welcome visitors with an open and inviting space, doubling the children’s area, and the design will provide direct access to an enchanting outdoor storytelling space. On the second floor, the layout will boast expanded areas for adult collections, diverse meeting spaces, and a dedicated tween/teen/young adult section that will triple in size, fostering a flexible and vibrant environment. The design also emphasizes enhanced accessibility, ensuring an inclusive experience for all patrons.

“J.V. Fletcher Library is important for our families,” said representative Arciero. “It’s important for our education system. It’s really important as a meeting place for our community.”

The JV Fletcher Library renovation and expansion project is expected to be completed by end of 2026. Finegold Alexander has a longstanding history of creating award-winning designs for new, renovated, and historic libraries across Massachusetts, having designed more than 30 libraries over 55 years. Finegold Alexander completed the public libraries for the cities of Holyoke and Stoughton, Mass., and the Jones Library addition and renovation in Amherst, Mass. is also under construction.