Merrill Memorial Library

Original history

Built in 1904-05, the Merrill Memorial Library holds a prominent position in the heart of Yarmouth, both culturally and physically. Designed by noted architect, Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow, the Colonial Revival structure is built of local brick with granite highlights. It’s classic tripartite floor plan originally allowed for a central entrance with a spacious, 1-1/2 story Reading Room. To one side was an original arched opening/circulation desk and closed stacks; to the other side, bookstacks.

Recent history

In 1987-88, the Town undertook the first major addition to the Library. The scope of this work included cutting through the back of the building to create a 3-story addition. The departure of a long-time tenant on the 3rd floor was the catalyst for consideration of a master plan and revitalization.

Design Concept 

The Merrill Memorial Library is now a completely renewed public building on all floors. With restored historic features, added insulation, and a new high-efficiency mechanical system, the building’s overall energy consumption has been reduced by 30 percent, allowing it to be both physically and operationally sustainable well into the future.  The new addition provides a light-filled community gathering space and meets an emotive need to pause, read a book, wait for a ride, and feel the peace of this quiet, but active place. The entry also creates a safer, more accessible approach to the library and a place for visitors to shed parking lot sand.

Design Challenges and Solutions

The addition bridges the stylistic differential between an 1904 building and a 1987 addition by offering a simple brick and glass addition detailed to 20th century standards but with authentic materials. The section creates a tall hipped-roof volume for the upper entry to respond proportionately to the original building, and a lower flat-roof entry that fits snuggly within the parameters of existing window heights. Windows are scaled to relate to the elongated windows on the original building. A large skylight brings natural light deep into the space, allowing for views of the original library from within the entry.

Many of the products used in this project came from Maine and New England companies, which allowed employment of local craftspeople. The water-struck brick from Auburn is created in the same type of mold that was used over 100 years ago. [Special dark-flashed brick headers were donated from a brickyard in Vermont.]

Construction Cost

Construction cost $2.3 million.  2015

Architecture or A/E Firm Name

Barba + Wheelock Architecture, Sustainability, Preservation

Architect

Nancy Barba

Team

Tim Morrison - Intern Architect

Consultants

Terrence Dewan & Associates, Baker Design Consultants, STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY, INC., MECHANICAL SYSTEMS, BARTLETT DESIGN

Location

215 Main Street Yarmouth, Maine

Client

Town of Yarmouth

General Contractor

Landry / French Construction

Photos