Support MBTS Library Bathroom Renovation

To the Editor,

We want to thank Tony Barletta for his overview in The Cricket of the important bathroom renovation planned for the Manchester Public Library.  We recommend that you vote YES at the Annual Town Meeting on April 27th to the capital exclusion of $250,000 to pay for this renovation.  It will also need your ballot vote at the May 19 Town Election.

We wrote a year ago regarding the vote for the design phase of this project.  The design phase was approved and is almost complete.  Construction could start as soon as this coming fall, and you will be asked at the Annual Town Meeting on 27 April 2026 to vote to fund the completion of this project.  We would like to highlight the main points from our last letter, to remind everyone of the project's importance.

As most in the Town already know, the current Manchester Public Library restroom is extremely limited in size and function, and much needed improvements are necessary to ensure everyone in our Town can access the restroom.  Undertaking these restroom renovations also means that we will address the long-standing need for an ADA compliant restroom, required by law under The Americans with Disabilities Act.

Besides bringing the Library in-line with governing law, the expansion will allow for long-needed access to the Library to members of our community using mobility aids, such as walkers, canes, and wheelchairs.  For those caring for infants and children, the updated restroom will now be large enough for a parent to more easily accompany a child, and a convenient place to change diapers.

With an ADA-compliant restroom, all will be able to use our wonderful and historic Town Library without concern about limited access to facilities.  By making the space more comfortable and convenient for all, everyone will be able to benefit from the Library’s collections, lending network, and programming, as well as offer more options for accessible bathrooms across our town.

This important public service is long overdue, and we hope the Town’s citizens will give this issue their attention and approval.  Please vote in favor of this budget item.

Sincerely,

The Manchester-by-the-Sea ADA Advisory Council:

Nicholas Armington

Lisa Bonneville

Caitlin Eppes

Christian Gal

Joey Gustafson

Beth Heisey

Laurie Werle