“Capital for a Day” Visits the Jeudevine Library

HARDWICK – The Jeudevine Memorial Library received a visit from Buildings and General Services Commissioner Jennifer Fitch on Tuesday, Aug. 27 as part of Governor Scott’s ‘Capital for a Day’ initiative. Fitch was accompanied by Director of Communications and Legislative Affairs Kate Eberle to view the new addition under construction at the library.

Board Chair Daphne Kalmar began the tour by explaining how the long, arduous process began, “After 10 years of trying to expand, finally we got a large request in the will of a former Hardwick resident who lived in New York City. It was completely unexpected.” Kalmar said this unforeseen gift, totaling $500,000, finally got the expansion underway.

The Jeudevine has faced a number of setbacks since the project began. After the town initially passed the bond measure, the COVID-19 pandemic swept the nation and subsequently halted all construction. Prices have since skyrocketed for both materials and labor, nearly doubling the original cost of the project. During construction, an underground stream was discovered which led to a complete redesign and even further delays and higher costs.

Built in 1896, the Jeudevine Memorial Library is a state designated historical site. Kalmar said the Division for Historic Preservation must be consulted every step of the way, to make sure construction abides by the regulations set forth by the state. This process also helps to ensure the new additions will be aesthetically similar to the building’s original unique design.

There will be no fees whatsoever to use the Jeudevine Memorial Library. Kalmar said patrons outside of their service area were previously charged $15 a year for library services. That policy was scrapped because, according to Kalmar, “Anybody should be able to use a library in town.”

Library Director Diane Grenkow said the community has met the expansion with enthusiasm, “The sheer amount of programs we’ll be able to do and host is amazing. Since we started, people have been reaching out wondering if they’ll be able to use the community area. It’s surprising how many groups there are in this area who are looking for a space. So many more people will be able to utilize the library this way.”

Currently, the reading area for both children and adults is 210 square feet. The new additions to the library will serve several functions and provide a separate space for adult patrons.

The downstairs will serve as a community meetings center, for programs, clubs and classes. This space will also include a kitchen and two conference rooms.

For now the downstairs center will not be open during library hours due to under-staffing.

The upstairs area of the new addition will be designated for younger readers, with plans to enhance the space with booths and other features to create an ideal study space.

The new main entrance will be handicap accessible with a stone walkway to be added in the near future.

Another notable addition to the building is a three-stop handicap accessible elevator.

The original building will undergo some interior remodeling to act as a designated quiet space for adult readers. Historic features will be preserved, such as the large pocket doors. The original wood floors will be restored and refinished, as well.

Concluding the tour, Commissioner Fitch remarked “I think Hardwick is doing lots of amazing things based on what we’ve seen here today.”

The 14-county tour ‘Capital for a Day’ initiative was first launched in 2018, providing municipalities an opportunity to connect directly with state leadership.