Manchester Breaks Ground on 21st-Century Library
Published on April 15, 2025
The Town of Manchester celebrated a significant milestone on Friday, April 11, 2025, as local leaders, state officials, and community members gathered to officially break ground on the highly anticipated 21st-Century Library. Designed to be a beacon of knowledge, sustainability, and innovation, the new library promises to redefine how residents interact with learning resources and community spaces.
Following the 2022 referendum that voters overwhelmingly approved, the Town formed a Library Building Committee, which developed designs to create a space that blends functionality and inspiration. The library will house ample room for Manchester’s extensive collection of books and materials, vibrant and engaging areas for children of all ages, and an interactive teen space tailored to the younger generation. The new facility will also feature a Makerspace and audio-visual studio, private study and meeting rooms, and a large community meeting space, catering to the needs of a modern, dynamic population.
Strategically located on Main Street at the former site of Webster Bank, the library will serve as an anchor to the Downtown area and be a model of sustainability. Plans include geothermal heating and cooling systems to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, alongside a rooftop array of solar panels to harness renewable energy, with a goal of becoming the first Net Zero public library in the state.
Mayor Jay Moran speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, expressed pride in the project: “This is not just a library—it’s a promise to our residents and future generations. This space will be an epicenter of learning, innovation, and environmental stewardship for years to come.”
Funding for the project includes local bonding funds, a $5 million grant from the U.S. Treasury Capital Projects Fund, a $3.5 million grant from the State of Connecticut’s Community Investment Fund, and $2.8 million in U.S. American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Officials attending the groundbreaking ceremony included Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, State Representative Jason Rojas, State Senator MD Rahman, State Representative Jason Doucette, State Representative Geoff Luxenberg, Deputy Commissioner Matt Pugliese of Connecticut Economic & Community Development, members of the Board of Directors, Library Board Chair Miriam Byroade, Library Building Committee Chair Brian Murphy, and 21st Century Library Task Force Chair Stephen Ristau.
“This historic project would not be possible without the support of numerous individual and organizational partners, most especially the Manchester voters and public”, said Town Manager Steve Stephanou. “I want to thank the community, current and former Board of Directors, Town Staff, the Library Board, 21st Century Library Task Force, O&G, HBM, Friar, and state and federal partners who have given Manchester the state-of-art library it deserves”.
“This groundbreaking marks the beginning of a space that will serve as a hub for learning, creativity, and connection—a library designed not just for today, but for the future, said Library Director Doug McDonough. “I couldn’t be more thrilled to see this vision come to life.”
Town officials anticipate that construction will proceed swiftly. The library is expected to open in the summer of 2026, delivering cutting-edge resources and sustainable design to the heart of Manchester.
For media inquiries or additional information about the 21st-Century Library, please contact: Steve Stephanou, Town Manager 860.647.3123 / sstephanou@manchesterct.gov
Press Release(PDF, 449KB)