* Library Expansion Project *
The City of Somersworth began working with Placework Architecture & Planning in 2023 to identify ways to make the Somersworth Public Library accessible, safe, and healthy for all residents. Goals of the project include:
- Making collections fully accessible at all levels
- Creating accessible (and visible) routes to restrooms
- Improving Children’s Room Comfort
- Becoming ADA and code compliant
The City was fortunate to receive a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) Grant in 2024, which allowed us to further employ Placework to work on the second phase of the project. Working closely with city representatives, Placework developed design plans that reflect the needs and priorities of our community. These updated designs were presented to the Somersworth City Council and community members on June 2, 2025. Placework is now in the process of finalizing the Construction Documents, which are essential for turning the architectural vision into a detailed, buildable plan for contractors. The City expects to receive these documents by the end of the summer.
Looking ahead, the Somersworth Public Library has applied for a new CDS Grant for Fiscal Year 2026 through the office of U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. CDS Grants support local priorities like education, public safety, and infrastructure and are part of Congress’s role in allocating federal funds. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Shaheen reviews New Hampshire proposals to ensure they meet federal guidelines and serve community needs. Nearly 300 proposals were reviewed, including ours. Selected proposals are forwarded to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. While this is an important step, funding is not guaranteed. Final approval requires congressional review, passage of the appropriations bill, and execution of a federal grant agreement. Applicants will be notified directly if their project is selected. Until then, no funds can be spent. Current CDS Grant Proposals can be viewed online.
Follow the links below to stay up-to-date on the Library Expansion project:
City Manager Presentation: Next Steps - June 15, 2026
Presentation: Building Access. Building Community. -June 15, 2026
Presentation: Library Expansion & ADA Accessibility Improvements - Februray 17, 2026
Presentation: Library Expansion & ADA Accessibility Improvements - June 2, 2025
Grant Proposal - February 26, 2025
Placework Library Feasability Study - February 21, 2023
Placework Library Accessibility Study Final Report - September 28, 2021