MARLBOROUGH – Like the rest of the city, Sara Belisle can’t wait to move into the “new” Marlborough Public Library once the construction project wraps up later this spring.
In her office are plans for the interior, from where the shelves will be located to the color of the carpets.
Just down the street, work continues on the library building. As of March 1, the main staircase had been installed, the drywall on the second floor was almost done, and the exterior glass walls had been delivered and are being installed.
Although construction stuff is “everywhere,” Belisle said the project is on schedule and on budget.
“It’s been fun,” said Belisle on her first weeks as director. “I’ve been given the opportunity to mold what the library has to offer.”
Belisle came to Marlborough from the Newton Public Library, where she was the supervisor of adult services.
“It’s a great library to work for. It’s big, really busy,” said Belisle. “I wanted to move into administration, and think about where my skill sets lie. There was a running list of where I’d want to go, and I saw this position, with a new library being built.”
Another advantage – Belisle lives in Marlborough, and she has been since 2019.
“My commute’s a lot shorter,” she said.
Sara Belisle talks about the new library
There will be lots of new stuff once the library reopens – new technology, meeting spaces, study rooms and shelving.
“I’m really excited about our printing service,” said Belisle.
This will include scanners that will help fix old photos and provide translation services.
The shelving, which has just been ordered, “will hold our collection better” and offer better access to patrons, she said.
The new library will also offer a little café and a children’s area where snacks will be available, she said.
“We want to have folks come and stay at the library,” said Belisle. “I’m excited for what the staff will be able to do.”
She credits the staff for making her transition much easier.
For the latest on the library, including the building project, visit www.marlborough-ma.gov/library-0.
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