Since 1966, the entrance of Emmaus Public Library has opened to thousands of learners and explorers of all ages. And it shows...
Last year, the overhead portico was removed for structural reasons, leaving the entrance exposed to the elements. The sidewalk is cracked, and the brick half-wall is crumbling.
A lot of work has gone into upgrading the library’s interior in recent years--including a new children’s wing and circulation desk, new carpeting, and more--creating a welcoming and comfortable indoor area.
Now the exterior needs our attention
A new entrance and plaza will create a bright, accessible and inviting space for our community, including:
A sheltered, accessible entryway
Better visibility to the parking area
Outdoor space to hold library events and for people to gather
A fresh, modern look using simple, sustainable materials
...and the plaza will showcase our unique and colorful community mosaic.
The new entrance and plaza is not only an aesthetic upgrade, but also a practical one. Currently, patrons waiting for their ride--such as seniors or students being picked up from a tutoring session--don't have a good view of the parking lot or protection from the elements. The new entrance and portico will fix that.
In warmer months, patrons will be able to enjoy library events such as storytimes or PA Shakespeare Festival performances outdoors in the new plaza. They can relax and read a book or meet up with friends and sit down for a chat.
In short, the new entrance and plaza will serve our growing community in many ways.
When will construction start? How long will it take?
It depends on various factors, including the contractor, availability of materials, permits and funding progress, but construction will hopefully start in late summer or early fall and take approximately three months.
What will happen to the Unity sculpture, benches, etc.?
As part of the planning process, we're working with both the Emmaus Arts Commission and Emmaus Parks to have the existing sculptures (within the new plaza area) relocated to their future home within a proposed ‘arts park’ on the lawn near the
library.
Will the entrance be blocked during construction?
Working with our construction vendor, we’ll do everything possible to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. We’ll provide advance notice on the library’s website and social media in the case of such an event.
How will it be funded?
We’re pursuing multiple funding avenues, including grants, local philanthropic organizations, and donations from patrons and area residents as part of a capital campaign.
Thanks to the library’s long-term investment of legacy gifts from private donations, this project will also be partially funded from the returns these investments have achieved, while preserving the initial capital for the library’s future funding needs. No library operating funds or municipal/state funds are being used for this project.
The fundraising goal is $200K. We're already on our way, with $50K committed!
Your contribution makes this project possible, and every donation helps.
Contributions can also be made by check to:
Emmaus Public Library (please add 'Entrance Project' on the memo line) and dropped off at the library or mailed to: Emmaus Public Library 11 E. Main St, Emmaus, PA 18049
A brochure with a donor form is available at the library or can be downloaded here if you wish to enclose it with your check.
Project and fundraising updates will be posted at emmauspl.org/enter as well as
in our monthly issues of BELONG.
Thank you for reading and supporting the library. Watch for the next regular issue of BELONG on (or about) April 1.
