From Demolition to Renovation: An Update on the Transformation of Dover's Library

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Eric Sanderson, the city's project manager, and Library Director Denise LaFrance about the ongoing renovation of Dover's historic library. The project, which began six months ago, is nearing the completion of demolition work and has started putting new elements back in place. Key structural work includes steel installation in the basement and relocating the fire stairway to improve access between the children's room and the new "Book Maze."

The renovation is a comprehensive "down to the bones" project aimed at creating a safer, more ADA-accessible building. Major changes include expanding the children's room into the basement of the historic 1905 building section, relocating the main circulation desk, adding more meeting rooms, and creating a new central entrance with an elevator and bathrooms on each floor. The project has faced some delays due to lead time issues with electrical equipment and window restoration challenges, pushing the anticipated reopening from January to February 2026.

While operating temporarily at the McConnell Center since December 2024, the library has discovered new community partnership opportunities, including expanded outreach programs, homebound delivery services, and collaboration with local organizations and schools. These innovative approaches will continue after the library returns to its renovated space. The library is currently in its busy summer reading season, offering programs for all ages both at the temporary location and through increased off-site programming.

In This Week in Dover History, we learn about former Mayor Jack Buckley's 1979 decision to resign from office to become executive director of the Dover Housing Authority, where he served for 34 years and transformed affordable housing in the city, including overseeing the Cocheco Park development and converting the historic Saint John's Methodist Episcopal Church into elderly housing.