Library Selects Architect for First Renovation Project in 20 Years

Last night the Woodstock Library Board of Trustees awarded a contract to Architecture + of Troy NY to study the Library and recommend ways to improve its public service. “A lot has changed in Woodstock and the world since the last renovation of the Library in 1987,” said Diana Stern who has been Director of the Woodstock Library since 1981. She went on to say that although the Library has added computers, including WiFi access for all, with better planning, the building could provide better service for its many patrons and visitors.

“Architecture+ has designed many libraries including the Saratoga Springs Public Library and the Johnstown Public Library,” said Stuart Auchincloss, chair of the Renovation Task Force of the Board of Trustees, “and we look forward to bringing the benefit of that experience to Woodstock. We had proposals from several excellent architects, the process was not easy,” he said, “but I am sure we have made an excellent choice.”

Vincent Lepera and Lisa Hayes of Architecture + plan to start on the study right away. They will begin with a careful inventory of how the building is being used. This will be followed with several suggestions for how to get more from the land and buildings we have now.

“The Renovation Task Force of the Board is looking forward to bringing in groups from the community as part of the feasibility study,” said Janine Mower, chair of the Board of Trustees and long time Woodstock history author. “In 2005, the doorway counter registered 165,299. A lot of people use the Library for many different purposes and we plan to improve service to all of them,” she said.