Building Connections Project
The South Orange Public Library is Expanding and Modernizing
Work on the Building Connections Project is underway. The award-winning firm Andrew Berman Architect has delivered a bold yet cost-efficient design for a dynamic and sustainable library. The vision draws from years of community consultation and planning.
Support the ProjectNew Library Plans and Renderings
To view plans and renderings for the Building Connections Project, please click the button below. You can also watch architect Andrew Berman’s Town Hall presentation of the project here and learn about Naming Opportunities here.
Renderings Presentation
Why This Project?
Years of planning have led to this moment. Achieving the project’s goals and objectives will be transformative for the Library and community of South Orange.
Learn MoreRenderings
View from parking lot
View from Scotland Rd.
Lobby, as entered from main entrance off parking lot
Lobby, as seen when leaving Children’s room
Children’s room, first floor
Enclosed courtyard, off children’s room
Entering adult room from lobby, second floor ramp
Adult room, second floor, as seen from lobby entrance
Adult room, second floor, heading toward lobby
Teen room, first floor of Connett
Reading room, second floor of Connett
Conference room, second floor of Connett
Conference room, second floor of Connett (reverse view)
Why We are Changing the Library
Expanding for MORE USERS and MORE USES
- Bigger Children’s Room — Have twice the fun & discovery!
- Plenty of Small Study Rooms — Work quietly or make noise: you decide!
- Two Conference Rooms — Meet, plan, make things happen!
- Community Hall — Celebrate, connect, learn.
- Makerspace — Experiment, create, explore.
- Connett Reading Rooms — Follow your interests, enjoy the historic space.
- Children’s Garden — Dig in and learn about nature.
- Teen Room — Discover yourself and the world.
- Lobby – See what’s happening, pick your destination, have a snack.
- Children’s Programming Room – Learn, play and create!
Eliminating barriers so ALL ARE WELCOME
- ADA Compliance — Enjoy frictionless accessibility for all patrons.
- New Main Entrance — Circulate, meet, greet, see, and be seen.
- Accommodations — Hear with looping, see with LEAP.
- Wayfinding —Explore without getting lost.
- Stroller Space — Park your strollers, finally!
Modernizing for STATE-OF-THE-ART FUNCTIONALITY & SUSTAINABILITY
- Tech overhaul – Pick your computer, plug in anywhere!
- Upgraded mechanical systems — Enjoy reliable, optimal building performance.
- Flexible layout — Watch the library grow and change with the times.
- Re-use of two existing buildings – Feel good about the low Low carbon footprint
Saving the Connett Building to PRESERVE HISTORY
- Rehabilitation of an architectural gem — Take pride in our original library.
- Space gains for local archives — Travel back in time, anytime.
Project Timeline
