The Board of Trustees of the Millburn Free Public Library is excited to announce the upcoming Phase 2 of its building renovation project. This phase will focus on the modernization of the second-floor program rooms, community meeting spaces, hallways and restrooms. Renovations are anticipated to commence in early 2025.
Following the successful completion of Phase 1 in 2022, which revitalized the first floor and mezzanine areas—enhancing the children’s room and teen space—the library is now set to turn its attention to the upper level. The planned improvements aim to create a more accessible, functional and welcoming environment for all patrons.
“Modernizing our second floor will not only enhance our facilities but also better serve the diverse needs of our community,” said Director Mike Banick. “We are committed to providing a space that fosters learning, collaboration and connection among our library users.”
Key highlights of the renovation include:
The library will stay open throughout the renovation. While the second floor will be closed, the mezzanine—home to the non-fiction stacks and a quiet study area—will be accessible to patrons. The library staff is committed to minimizing disruptions, however brief closures may be necessary for safety reasons. Programming will continue during the renovation, utilizing virtual options or relocating events to the first floor or off-site as necessary.
The projected completion date is late summer 2025. Community members can expect a refreshed and inviting space that enhances their library experience. Further updates about the renovation process will be available on the library’s website at millburnlibrary.org and through social media channels.
Bids were opened on February 6, 2025 and on February 13, the Board of Trustees awarded the renovation contract to AB Designs Contraction Corporation of Summit, New Jersey.
Right now, the second floor meeting rooms, hallways, administration offices and restrooms are closed to the public. Admin offices have temporarily moved to two quiet study rooms on the library mezzanine.
Demolition work began on March 5. Ceilings, lighting, and all restroom fixtures have been removed, and some new doorways have been roughed out. The general layout of the second floor will be the same, but everything will be refreshed and updated to complement the renovated first floor, with new ceilings, LED lighting, wall finishes, and flooring. Original concrete block walls wall also be furred out and covered with drywall for a sleeker, more finished look. Finally, new bay windows are being added to the auditorium to allow natural light into this large meeting room.
Note: The library will be closed all day on Thurs 3/27 and Fri 3/28 due to renovation work. The first floor and mezzanine will reopen on Saturday 3/29.
