JUMP TO PROJECT UPDATES & CONSTRUCTION ALERTS
Since 1966…the entrance of Emmaus Public Library has opened to thousands of learners and explorers of all ages. And it shows.
Last year, the overhead portico was removed for structural reasons, leaving the entrance exposed to the elements. The sidewalk is cracked, and the brick half-wall is crumbling.
A lot of work has gone into upgrading the library’s interior in recent years–including a new children’s wing and circulation desk, new carpeting, and more.
NOW THE EXTERIOR NEEDS OUR ATTENTION
The new entrance and plaza will create:
- A sheltered, accessible entryway
- Better visibility to the parking area
- Outdoor space to hold library events and for people to gather
- A fresh, modern look using simple, sustainable materials
…and the plaza will showcase our unique and colorful community mosaic.
The estimated total cost of the project is $280K.*
Your contribution helps make this project possible.
*This estimate is subject to change due to inflation, tariffs, and other contingencies that may arise as the project moves forward.
PLEASE NOTE: As of May 22, we have made a change to our progress tracker, which previously stated that the fundraising goal was $200K. While the estimated total cost has always been $280K, it was projected that $80K would likely be covered through grant applications in progress, leaving $200K to be raised from other sources. We have since realized that tracking and communicating the funding in that manner caused confusion, so going forward, we are using the total estimated project cost ($280K) and total funds raised from all sources for tracking purposes.
Click below to enlarge
It depends on various factors, including the contractor, availability of materials, permits and funding progress, but construction will hopefully start in late summer or early fall and take approximately three months.
We’re pursuing multiple funding avenues, including grants, local philanthropic organizations, and donations from patrons and area residents as part of a capital campaign.
Thanks to the library’s long-term investment of legacy gifts from private donations, this project will also be partially funded from the returns these investments have achieved, while preserving the initial capital for the library’s future funding needs. No library operating funds or municipal/state funds are being used for this project.
As part of the planning process, we’re working with both the Emmaus Arts Commission and Emmaus Parks to have the existing sculptures (within the new plaza area) relocated to their future home within a proposed ‘arts park’ on the lawn near the library.
Working with our construction vendor, we’ll do everything possible to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. We’ll provide advance notice on the library’s website and social media in the case of such an event.
UPDATE (8/3/26): CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN AUGUST 17
After many months of planning, we’re excited to announce that work on the new entrance and plaza is due to begin on August 17!
We expect to remain open throughout, which means there will be some temporary adjustments for all of us during construction. We thank you in advance for your patience and understanding while we create a welcoming entrance and community space we can all enjoy for years to come.
Here’s what you need to know:
- UGI Utilities has notified us of work along Ridge Street (between Keystone St. and State St.) anticipated for Aug. 10-24. While we don’t have specific details about how it will affect traffic and parking, we’ll share any news on our social media as we get it. Please allow extra time for possible delays and parking restrictions.
- Parking in the library lot will be limited. If the lot is full, please park along Ridge Street (if available) or Williams St., where there is also a lot for the recreation area.
- The library’s front entrance will be closed off for the first two weeks. Please follow signs around to the back of the building for the alternate entry.
- Curbside pickup is available for your holds. Please call us at 610-965-9284 when you arrive and we’ll bring them out to you.
- Our regular book drops in the parking lot and on the side of the building will not be accessible for the first two weeks, including evenings and weekends. Please bring returns inside the library during library hours.
With the exception of museum passes, WiFi hotspots, and puzzles–all of which must be returned inside our library–items can also be returned to any other LCLC library or to the book drops at Macungie Borough Hall and at the Upper Milford Township Office.
- Book/item donations will be paused for two weeks (Aug. 17-31). Please hold on to your donations until September.
- Plant A Row weekly collections will continue on Monday mornings, but the cooler will be placed in new location for the pickups scheduled Aug. 17-31. Look for signs and watch for details on our social media.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your flexibility as demolition begins and the foundation for the new entrance is poured. Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates as the project unfolds.
