The 44,000-square-foot, three-story renovation and expansion of the Otis Library creates a new focal point and center of community pride on Norwich’s Main Street. Until funding became available for renovation, the library was forced to work within the configuration of the old Sears Department that was formerly housed there for many years. As imagined, the $10.5M renovation that Newfield completed was extraordinarily well received by the City and library staff. The project included a new façade and complete interior reconfiguration, and now quiet spaces and areas for interaction of large and small study groups are available to guests. Formal meeting rooms are incorporated, and a new central atrium welcomes guests upon arrival.
New facilities within the library include the Center for Young Adults, Café and Media Center, Leisure Reading Area, Storytelling and Crafts Room, the Friends of Otis Library Activity Center, and Local History and a climate-controlled Genealogy Room. The main floor incorporates adult library functions, with the upper-level housing the Children’s Library and Community Resource Center and the lower level incorporating Administrative Offices. A new outdoor Courtyard provides an area for reflection and natural views from office windows.