Our Goals

The library’s board and leadership, with input from our community and the help of BKP Architects, has developed a strategic plan to both renovate and expand CCML to meet modern needs and future growth. Our goals are simple yet transformational: to create a safe, accessible, and welcoming library that serves as a hub for education, cultural enrichment, and community connection. Our project goals are:

• Expand library space to serve more community members
• Create a modern technology center and study rooms
• Preserve our historic architecture while upgrading infrastructure
• Enhance programming for children, teens, and adults

The project will fully renovate the current structure, addressing urgent ADA compliance and long-deferred repairs and add a new 10,000-square-foot, two-story wing, expanding our capacity for programming, collections, and community gatherings. These improvements are guided by best practices and meet the Delaware Council on Libraries’ standards for space and service.

Our Project

The total estimated cost for the renovation and expansion is $10 million. The renovation includes critical infrastructure upgrades—windows, roofing, lighting, flooring, bathrooms, and ADA improvements—as well as new furnishings and site work. The addition adds flexible meeting spaces, dedicated children’s, updated technology, and infrastructure to support expanded programming and collections. The design allows for group meetings, tutoring, special events, and programming for underrepresented groups such as the growing Hispanic population and home-schooled students. With flexible layouts and movable furniture, the new facility will adapt to community needs for decades to come.