Legacy Library Building Summary Fact Sheet
The New Canaan Library at 151 Main Street was built in 1913 when it outgrew previous locations on Elm Street. The footprint of the original structure comprised two rectangles. The one in front, facing Main Street, measured 65ft long by 20ft deep. The one behind was slightly smaller, measuring ~60ft by ~19ft. Over time the original structure was enlarged through a series of additions in the 1930s, 1950s and finally in 1979. During each of these changes, part of the original structure was removed to enable the attachment of the new construction. Additionally, over time other parts of the building were replaced such as the columns of the entry portico and the roof. The original rear rectangle has been largely subsumed by later additions. Today, all that remains of the original structure are two walls.
In 2012, the New Canaan Library assembled a community study group that worked with Centerbrook Architects to identify and rank the many elements that they hoped to see in a new facility. Retaining the old library building was ranked 15th of 25 elements. In 2017, the library, along with design team considered the option of repurposing the legacy building onsite in situ or moved, weighing functional, aesthetic and financial considerations as well as the impact on the green. After reviewing several options, it was found this was not possible for the following reasons:
The estimated cost to rebuild the old building would be an additional $3-$4 Million dollars.
There is asbestos in the floors, basement, and roof as well as lead in the paintwork, all of which would need to be completely abated/removed and properly disposed.
There are incomplete foundations that would need to be constructed anew.
There is no HVAC nor plumbing in the building.
All wiring and electrical work would need to be replaced and brought up to code.
The roof has been replaced over time and is now made of a plastic material.
The columns of the entry portico are not original and had been replaced with a synthetic material several decades ago.
There is no library function for a freestanding, 1300 square foot separate building, nor is there extra funding for additional staff and operating costs.
The building would need to comply with ADA regulations, requiring an entry ramp and an accessible bathroom, both of which would alter the aesthetics, and usable space and surrounding grade of the small building.
There would be no large outdoor program space, as offered by a green.
It is important to note that the original building is not registered as an historic building nor is it within the Town of New Canaan Historic District.