COLRAIN — A few months after asking for public comment on potential improvements at Griswold Memorial Library, Library Director Val Finkel discussed the plans with the Selectboard this week and the feedback that has been received.

According to Finkel, the access ramp at the back of the building is funneling stormwater into the basement, meaning that no library materials that could be damaged by water or become moldy can be stored there. They added that part of this site plan includes lengthening the ramp to reduce its incline, while also placing it against the building instead of having it jut out into the parking lot.

Once it’s dry, the plan for the basement is “to store stuff down there,” Finkel said. They added that a book sale has always been something that the library has wanted to hold, however, there has never been enough space.

While the conceptual site plan includes everything that could potentially be done at the library, Finkel said that at a minimum, the final plan needs to address the accessibility and stormwater drainage. Another key proposal involves expanding the parking lot from six spaces to 11.

The conceptual site plan for proposed changes to Griswold Memorial Library. Library Director Val Finkel said that the most important issue to address was the drainage from the accessible ramp.
The conceptual site plan for proposed changes to Griswold Memorial Library. Library Director Val Finkel said the most important issue to address is the drainage from the access ramp. Credit: CONTRIBUTED

Finkel noted that the most public comment centered around a potential trail system into the woods behind the building, along with an accessible pathway that would allow library visitors access to the green space, also behind the building.

Once price estimates are obtained, Finkel said they’ll go to the library’s board of trustees and get their take on the plan. They added that keeping the total cost of the project under 30% of the valuation of the building is paramount. Under 521 CMR 3.00 from the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, if the project (which includes additions, reconstruction, remodeling, alterations or repairs) exceeds that 30%, the entire building would need to meet full accessibility requirements, which could dramatically raise the cost.

Finkel added that the library is still accepting any public comments before the plan is presented to the board of trustees. In terms of a timeline, Town Administrator Diana Parsons said the project in its entirety should take three to five years.

Johnny Depin graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a degree in journalism in 2025. He is the West County beat reporter and can be reached at jdepin@recorder.com or by phone at 413-930-4579.