W. Tisbury, MA– Nauset Construction recently completed the finishing touches to the renovated and expanded West Tisbury Free Public Library, a $5.2 million project that more than doubled the size of the previous structure. The project involved the complete interior renovation of the original library as well as the construction of a new two-story addition that enabled the library to grow from 5,640 square feet to approximately 13,000.The library was re-opened to the public in late March while Nauset recently finished significant landscaping and hardscaping improvements to the property.
The project began in January of 2013, progressing throughout the dead of winter, and was completed on schedule in early February as projected. Despite the weather, the most challenging aspect of the project was procuring and coordinating materials, equipment and manpower to the Vineyard, a situation Nauset had previously experienced with the successful construction of the Steamship Authority ferry terminal in Oak Bluffs in 2009. “There was a good deal of coordination and planning involved with this project that you would not encounter with construction on the mainland,” said Nauset president Anthony Papantonis. “We had to arrange ferry schedules and housing well in advance to accommodate our subcontractors, and there is only one concrete and asphalt provider on the island, so scheduling was critical to the success of this project.”
The addition and renovation to the existing library originally built in 1993 included a new study room for young adults, an additional meeting room for programs, lectures and films, a new director’s office, staff administrative space, meeting space and restrooms. To increase the building’s energy efficiency, new HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems were installed. A new elevator and septic system were also included in the project’s scope of work. Designed by Oudens Ello Architecture to adhere to Martha’s Vineyard historical guidelines, the new library features a cedar shake shingle exterior facade, topped with asphalt roof shingles and the quintessential cupola. The Library’s interior boasts wood casement and double-hung windows and skylights providing substantial natural light, detailed millwork including built-in bookcases, stairs and cabinets along with pre-finished white oak and resilient flooring.