Thomas Crane Public Library

OVERVIEW

The Thomas Crane Public Library is considered one of the finest small-scale Romanesque Revival designs by Richardson, who is best known as the architect of Trinity Church in Copley Square in Boston.  W.T. Rich Company was hired as the General Contractor on this new addition and restoration project, which consisted of a major 50,000 square foot new addition with new granite and masonry exterior walls plus extensive interior and exterior rehabilitation of the existing historic granite library.

The new addition was a steel-framed, three-story structure. The design included the creation of a large atrium space rising to full height in the new structure, marrying the old and new elements of both buildings. The work sequence included the design and implementation of a sophisticated shoring system to support the existing building's roof structure.

The renovation aspect of the project consisted of a comprehensive renovation of interior MEP systems and architectural finishes. Interior work entailed highly detailed and ornate architectural woodwork and finishes in both the renovated building and the new addition.

The existing library remained operational throughout the construction period.