Restoration Project

The Redwood's plan is drawn around three key components: restoration, renovation, and a state-of-the-art addition fully integrated into the existing architecture.

First among these components is restoration - the return of the historic buildings to complete structural soundness.

To begin, the Perry and McBean additions will be renovated incorporating necessary technology upgrades and providing more efficent staff offices. A multi-fuction meeting space, and a supervised rare book and research facility will also be created. These renovations will allow the Harrison building, which is often closed to the public to accomodate meetings, to return to consistent public access.

Next among these components is an addition to be created on a south axis to the Delivery Room. Years of research and consultation have yielded a clear conclusion - the Redwood's multiple needs will be most completely met by a below-ground facility.

Shepley, Bulfinch, Richardson, and Abbot, leaders in the field of architectural preservation and below-ground construction, have developed an ingenious design that meets the Library's requirements. Externally, the building will be little changed. For a closer look at the restoration plans, please view the links at left.

Restoration Project photos taken by Thomas Palmer