Dudley Branch Plaza and Entry Project

The Boston Public Library is working with Utile Inc. Architecture and a community advisory committee to study near-term improvements to the entrance at the Dudley branch of the Boston Public Library. Often described as the "only library without a front door" this study aims to improve sight lines and visibility of the entrance. In addition, a larger study of the entire branch services, programs, and spaces is underway.

New East Boston Branch

A new, centrally-located East Boston branch library has been a top capital priority for the Boston Public Library for the past four years. A site study was completed in July 2009 after a yearlong public process to discuss the services, programs, and spaces most valued by East Boston residents. The FY11 Capital Budget includes funds for the development of a library program, evaluation of existing and potential sites, and design of the new branch.

Read the East Boston Fact Sheet (PDF, 1MB) for information on the schedule as well as proposed library features and services.

The Library will continue to engage the community as the process moves forward. Watch the bpl.org site and the East Boston and Orient Heights branch pages for updates on this exciting capital project.

If you have any questions, please contact Christine Schonhart, Director of Branch Libraries, at cschonhart@bpl.org.

Project History

Notes from fifth CAC meeting, January 24, 2012 (PDF) (Click on images to enlarge)
Detailed and decorated floor plan of building		Meeting participants		East Boston Branch Design Update   (Click on the arrows in the bottom left corner to view full-screen)
Design Presentation - 4th CAC Meeting (Click on the arrows in the bottom left corner to view full-screen) Presentation from the fourth CAC meeting, July 20, 2011 (PDF)			Images from early East Boston CAC Meetings #1 - #3 (Click on the arrows in the bottom left corner to view full-screen) Notes from third CAC meeting, April 20, 2011 (PDF) Notes from second CAC meeting, January 20, 2011 (PDF) Notes from first CAC meeting, December 2, 2010 (PDF)

Jamaica Plain Branch Renovations

The Library is working with Miller Dyer Spears Inc. and a community advisory committee to study pre-design options and cost estimates for a renovation of the the Jamaica Plain branch of the Boston Public Library. The goals of this study include ADA accessibility, improved spaces, collections and technology for all ages, and and enhanced multi-purpose room.