A NEW CHAPTER: The Jamestown Philomenian Library completed its renovation and expansion
in January, the first such project at the
53-year-old building in 32 years
Jamestown Philomenian Library | 26 North Road, Jamestown
Work commenced: November 2022
Project Cost: $4.7 million in construction costs; approximately $5.1 million inclusive of architect and consultant fees, furniture/fixtures/equipment, and other affiliated costs
Size: Expanded from 12,605 square feet to 14,316 square feet
Builder/Developer/General Contractor: E.W. Burman Inc.
Architect: NewPort Architecture
Designer: Project Ross Design LLC
Additional Consultants: Public Archaeology Lab and the Narragansett Indian Tribal Historic Preservation Office
Project Description: The Jamestown Philomenian Library, originally constructed in 1971 and significantly expanded in 1992, underwent a comprehensive renovation and expansion completed in January 2024. The library’s new features include a dedicated room for young children and their caregivers, a space for the tween population, and additional areas for the expanded staff. The previous children’s area is now a quiet reading room for adults, and the old adult area has been transformed into a new children’s wing. This wing includes separate areas for tweens and younger children, and a centrally located youth services desk. The renovation included significant upgrades to the building’s electrical and mechanical systems, with fully renovated restrooms; a complete electrical system overhaul; a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; and the addition of a family restroom in the children’s section.
