Why do we need a Building Project?​

Since opening its doors in 1974, Library services have expanded to include community meeting space, special programs and events, and many new collections.

As the population of Southington has grown (30% since this building was opened), so too have the demands of the library, from items borrowed, to daily visitors.

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With only 21,000 sq ft to serve a population of over 44,000, the Southington Library one of the smallest Libraries in the state per capita. The Town of Wallingford has a population nearly the same as Southington's, yet Southington's Library could fit inside the Wallingford Library 3 times with space left over!
The Library does not meet the State Library recommended standards for space.

Fire code and ADA require wider aisles. Not all of the Library is accessible to everyone, and codes requiring fire doors further limit maneuvering clearance. Fire codes have also limited the number of people who can attend events in meeting spaces.

The Meeting Room can only seat 60 individuals. Larger programs need to be held in the Cafe Area disrupting normal library operations. There are no A/V capabilities in the Cafe Area limited the type of events that can occur there--and the number of individuals who can benefit from educational programming.

Project Priorities

The Library must be able to meet Fire Code and be Accessible to all members of the community. While accomplishing these necessities, the project will also prioritize improving certain areas and functions to meet the needs of the community. This will include:
  • Adding Quiet Spaces
  • Enhancing the Children's Area
  • Providing Community Meeting Spaces