Architect chosen for library renovation project
Date: 11/7/2012
By Carley Dangona
carley@thereminder.comWEST SPRINGFIELD — Mayor Gregory Neffinger announced on Oct. 30 that Caolo & Bieniek Associates Inc. (C&B) of Chicopee was selected as the architect for the new West Springfield Public Library (WSPL).
Neffinger added that he was "thrilled" about the decision and "very excited" to have the project commence.
"The town will clearly define the scope of the work," he said of the negotiation process. "C&B will provide the town with the names of their consultants and fee negotiation will begin."
To Neffinger, an architect by trade, the schematic phase is the most exciting stage of construction. "The design process is where that [the fine details] all comes out," he said. "I'm planning on being intimately involved with the project from beginning to end."
The mayor elaborated on his overall vision of the library. "For me, having a prominent civic building is important. I want West Springfield residents to be proud of the building from the entry to all of the spaces inside. The building should be beautiful and should reflect [the atmosphere and aesthetics of] our town."
Sharon Scott, chair of the Library Board of Trustees, shared the mayor's enthusiasm. "We're [the board] excited to have C&B's expertise. It's been an up and down road — such an arduous process — that's been several years in the making. It's been a lot of work," she said.
Scott explained that the construction was previously slated for Mittineague Elementary School, located at 26 Second St., but that the location was no longer available by the time the funds were received.
She added that the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) reviewed and approved the board's request for the new library to be built in the footprint of its current site at 200 Park St.
According to Scott, the MBLC provided the "primary funding" to the WSPL, in the amount of a $6.2 million grant. The design must adhere to MBLC standards, and in addition, the design is required to be submitted by Jan. 31, 2013.
Scott also outlined some of the aspects the board hopes to see in the design.
"We really, really need the infrastructure for more information technology services, so the library can offer Wi-Fi and computer classes to patrons," Scott stated. "More meeting areas and comfortable spaces are also needed."
Neffinger also supported the need for more "social spaces," as well as the implementation of "display cases for exhibits."
Sustainability was another factor he mentioned. "It's very important this be a building that'll last for 100 years," he said.
"We are all working together to get the library West Springfield deserves. Our library is the community center of our town and it needs to meet the needs of the 21st century and beyond," Scott said.
