Upgrades Proposed For Bloomfield Children’s Library (Here’s The Plan)

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Some much-needed upgrades are in the works for a “beloved part” of the Bloomfield community, officials say.

Earlier this week, township officials announced plans to move forward with renovations to the historic Bloomfield Children’s Library at 90 Broad Street.

Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell said the Children’s Library is a “beloved part of our community” and a local landmark. The proposed renovations will help to preserve an “important piece of our history” and take another step towards enhancing the town’s infrastructure, she added.

The work will include:

• Roof Rehabilitation
• Window Restoration
• Masonry and Stone Work
• Woodwork and Trim Restoration
• Site Work

According to a news release from the township, the restoration project will help to preserve the building’s historical integrity, while addressing “significant deterioration” caused by water damage and wear over the years.

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Bloomfield officials said the library will remain open during the majority of the renovation, and a plan will be in place to ensure “minimal disruption” otherwise.

What are the next steps? According to township officials:

“Netta Architects shared the renovation plan during the Jan. 27 township council meeting, offering an update on the project’s status and timeline for moving forward. The funding will come from re-appropriation of existing, approved capital funds. To proceed with this funding, an ordinance will be introduced at the next council meeting on Feb. 10, with a second reading and final approval scheduled for the following council meeting on Feb. 24.”

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Bloomfield officials provided some background about the historical importance of the building:

"The Bloomfield Children’s Library, designed by local architect John. F. Capen in the Colonial Revival style, has stood for nearly a century as a symbol of Bloomfield’s commitment to education and community.

"The building, originally completed in 1927 and centered in the Bloomfield Green Historic District, remains an important community asset and a contributing resource to the district’s architectural and cultural heritage.

"Throughout the restoration project, care will be taken to adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, ensuring that all improvements are sensitive to the library’s historic design."

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