Reading Public Library Foundation makes a new outdoor terrace a reality

$158,500 Project Fully Funded by Reading Public Library Foundation

READING, MA -- November 6, 2025 -- After two years of careful planning, the Reading Public Library is excited to announce the construction of a new outdoor terrace. This project was developed through collaboration between community members, town staff, and design experts, and made possible by the generosity of the Reading Public Library Foundation.

The Board of Library Trustees formed the Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee (LLC) in 2023 to explore ways to make the Library's outdoor area more usable, expand the library's mission "as a place for learning and civic engagement,” and fully realize the vision of the 2016 renovation. Importantly, the LLC committed to using private (non-taxpayer) funds for any projects.

With approval from the Board of Library Trustees, the LLC used gift funds to commission a conceptual/feasibility design with Activitas, a landscape design company. Activitas conducted focus groups with neighbors and a community survey, which revealed the community's desire for additional seating, shade, native plantings, and accessible spaces that provide opportunities for gathering.

In March 2024, Activitas presented a conceptual design to the LLC that had been reviewed by various town departments, including public safety, engineering, DPW, planning, and facilities. The design incorporates a program area that serves as both a patio and tiered seating, built into the existing hillside. This approach utilizes the natural landscape while adding functionality, accessibility and creating a welcoming outdoor space for all to enjoy.

"During COVID, the Library saw the value of bringing our services, such as children's programs or family concerts, outdoors," said Amy Lannon. "This project creates an outdoor space that can be used for performances and with seating options space and enhances accessibility for all patrons, especially for the immunocompromised. We're excited to find new ways to bring library users outside."

In August, the Library received eight competitive bids for the Library Terrace project. The project has been awarded to Belko Landscaping for $158,000, with construction beginning on Monday, November 10, 2025.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Reading Public Library Foundation for wholly funding this project," said Mr. Cappy Popp, Chair of the Board of Library Trustees. "This Library Terrace represents just the beginning of our vision for vibrant exterior spaces that bring our community together."

For more information, please contact the Reading Public Library at rdgadmin@noblenet.org.

Flyer by the Reading Public Library.