To the Hanson Community,

Newsletter 7 | February 2026

Before we look ahead and continue work on the Library Building Project, it’s important to pause and review what has been accomplished over the past two years. Library projects move forward through deliberate planning, data, review and accountability by a dedicated group of volunteers and Library staff.



Here’s a look at what has been completed so far:

2024: Laying the Groundwork

MBLC Application Submitted (May 2024)

The Town submitted a comprehensive, data-driven application to the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), competitively positioning Hanson for state funding.

Community Needs Assessment & Data Collection

Usage statistics, demographic trends, program demand, community feedback, and facility limitations were analyzed to ensure the project is grounded in real need.

January 2025: State Support Secured

$100,000 Planning & Design Grant Awarded

Hanson received MBLC Planning & Design funding, formally advancing the project into the next phase.

This award was not guaranteed. The highly competitive grant required documentation, review and meeting state criteria. Hanson ranked first among medium-sized libraries in the state for this grant round.

2025: From Vision to Defined Plan

Library Building Program Completed

A formal programming document was developed with the assistance of a library consultant which outlines:

• Space needs by age group
• Collection requirements
• Demand for meeting rooms
• Accessibility improvements
• Technology integration
• Storage and operational needs
  

The Library Building Program ensures the building will be appropriately sized to meet the needs of the Hanson community.


Schematic Design Initiated

Library service needs have developed into floor plans with physical layouts. Room sizes, adjacencies, circulation and service points were carefully considered and defined.


Cost Estimating & Value Review

Independent cost estimates will be obtained and reconciled. The project team is working to align scope with budget realities.

Design Priorities Integrated

• Accessibility compliance
• Clear sightlines and safety
• Energy efficiency and solar readiness
• After-hours meeting room access
• Flexible multi-use rooms
• Outdoor green space
  

Ongoing Public Communication

• Six newsletters already distributed to the community
• Monthly building tours offered and ongoing
• Website maintained with up-to-date information about the project
• Public Service Announcement produced and aired on local cable channel
• Public forums scheduled for mid-March

How to Stay Involved and In Touch

1. Take a guided tour of the library to learn about the current building’s challenges and our plan to address them as part of the renovation. Tours are offered at 10:00 am on every first Saturday from November to May. Can’t make Saturday? Contact us to schedule a different day.
2. Subscribe to Email Updates Below
3. Visit out Website and Follow our Social Media Accounts!

Your voice helps shape our Library’s future. Every design decision is made to serve Hanson residents — now and for decades to come.

Follow the Library Building Committee on Socials!

These project newsletters are developed and generated by the Owner's Project Manager, to keep the community informed of the progress being made on the site.