photo courtesy Jeudevine Library
HARDWICK – Library Director Diane Grenkow was present at the November 20 regular select board meeting to provide updates on library happenings and activities since reopening with the new addition.
Grenkow delivered a glowing report for the last quarter, with a 55% increase in patrons through the door from July to October, compared to the same four-month period in previous years.
Fifty library programs have been held in the meeting rooms, with 45 local organizations using them. In total, 666 people have attended library programs in the last four months, a 43% increase in attendance.
The Department of Libraries recently interviewed Grenkow about the new addition, funded in part by a grant award of $725,000, as well as a bequeathment from the late Parker Ladd, for whom the Parker Ladd Community Room is named.
The Jeudevine’s renovations and expansion include a two-story addition, AFA compliant bathrooms, HVAC, plumbing and electrical updates.
Grenkow spoke to the state of the library pre-renovation, saying, “The Jeudevine, built in 1896, had long since outgrown its space. Not only did getting around the library require the ‘Jeudevine Jig’ (where two people had to turn sideways to pass each other in the stacks or behind the desk), but the building itself was only accessible by a set of granite steps, and accessing the bathroom required navigating a winding staircase into the basement.”
After school, the library would often fill up with kids who wanted to play on the computers, creating a noisier environment for adults. Sometimes, other kids would look in and then leave because there was nowhere to sit, said Grenkow.
“All programming had to happen outside of regular library hours because it was impossible to do it any other way. It wasn’t ideal for anyone, including patrons and staff, and it was inaccessible to patrons with mobility issues,” she concluded.
A community effort, Grenkow says input from all stakeholders was an essential first step in moving forward with the idea of the expansion. The project is the culmination of the efforts of library trustees, friends and community members.
“Funds were raised from every imaginable place: state and federal grants, individual donors, bequests and a town bond. It was a challenging time to build, as the pandemic repeatedly drove prices up. We were fortunate to have donors step in at just the right moment, time and again, keeping this moving forward.”
Grenkow noted the town allowed them to move into the Memorial Building temporarily, while floors were refurbished and stone cutters got to work. The library was closed for one week only, “while a big crew of volunteers helped move and organize every book and piece of furniture that we have.”
The new, light-filled addition houses everything from board books for babies, to novels for young adults, with strategically placed bookcases to separate the age groups. There are public access computers available in the children’s room, creating a separate workspace for adults. The historic building now features recently restored wood floors and stained glass windows.
Two meeting rooms were added to the lower level, which have proven necessary for the community.
Concluding the interview, Grenkow had some advice for others embarking on similar projects: “Be sure to gather as much input as possible from as many stakeholders as possible, and designate someone to serve as the point of contact who can bridge the gap between trustees and staff who may not have experience with construction, and the builders who may not be familiar with modern library operations. Communication is key. It’s not always easy, but it’s always better to have clear lines of communication and to take the time needed to understand the process, so you end up with the building that everyone wants and everyone needs.”
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
