The Historic Entrance Stairways are an important feature of the Library’s façade. The stairs and their design are part of the building’s 1907 construction. Some repairs have been done over the years, however, the current issues with the stairs and brickwork require more than a repair this time. An engineering study concluded repairs would be a short-term fix, but eventually more significant work would be needed.
A re-engineered design, calling for reconstruction, was a better long-term approach for the Historic Entrance stairways. The project, to remove the stairs, make repairs, and then rebuild the stairs using the original granite steps, started in March 2024 and was completed in December 2024..
The major tasks were creating a complex drainage system, creating a building foundation-wall behind the stairs where there used to be doors and windows, creating a concrete foundation below the stairs themselves, reinstalling the original granite stair treads, reinstalling the original light poles, installing newly fabricated handrails, and repaving the walkway. The final task: restoring the lawn.
This project is funded by the Community Preservation Act. Click here to learn more about the Community Preservation Act.
Click HERE to watch The North Andover Journal's coverage of the library's Historic Entrance Project!
