Last look at old library: Amherst’s Jones giving tours through March

The Jones Library in Amherst.

The Jones Library in Amherst. STAFF FILE PHOTO

By SCOTT MERZBACH

Staff Writer 

Published: 03-11-2024 9:16 AM

Modified: 03-12-2024 11:16 AM


AMHERST — Final opportunities for patrons to get an inside look at both the original 1928 Jones Library building and its 1990s addition, before work commences on an expansion and renovation project at the 43 Amity St. site this spring, are taking place throughout March.

Beginning Tuesday at 7 p.m., volunteers from the Friends of the Jones Libraries are leading tours of the current building, bringing people into some spaces that are not open to the public, including what they call a “rabbit warren” of hidden staff workrooms and back stairwells.

The tours also will be an opportunity for people to revisit areas of the library popular with the public but likely to change in some fashion during the $46.1 million project.

Capital campaign manager Ginny Hamilton said that the tours come in advance of construction bids being due in mid-April. As of March 1, $39.1 million has been secured from various sources, including $4.06 million from the community campaign that is supplementing $15.75 million from the town, $13.87 million from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and various other federal, state and local grants.

Library operations will be at a temporary site at some point, with expanded hours expected at the branch libraries, Munson Memorial Library in South Amherst and the North Amherst Library. Town Manager Paul Bockelman said town officials are still working on securing a temporary site. 

After Tuesday evening, there will be four other opportunities to tour the building, including Thursday at 10 a.m., March 17 at 2 p.m., March 23 at 10 a.m. and March 26 at 7 p.m. Tours will begin at the main stairwell on the first floor and will last about one hour.

For more information, go to www.JonesLibraryCapitalCampaign.org.

Article continues after...

Yesterday's Most Read Articles

A sliver goes a long way: After finding online success for its 9-calorie bites of heaven, Tangle Chocolate now open on Main Street in Williamsburg
Belchertown becomes first in WMass to phase out nicotine sales
Amherst Shopping Center owner supports U-Drive overlay district, says Big Y will stay intact
Easthampton Mayor LaChapelle vetoes salary increase council approved
Area briefs: Holiday Stroll in Northampton; New series highlights Black experience WMass; Florence Bank donates $10K to Mass Humanities; HCC’s new program for adult learners
Center Pharmacy in Granby allegedly submits false claims to MassHealth, AG says