We are in the process of finalizing design plans for a large-scale project to create a space that is inspiring, welcoming, safe, and accessible.
The goals of The Next Chapter project:
- Make all our spaces accessible to everyone.
- Protect our books and building with infrastructure that will serve generations to come.
- Develop flexible reading, studying and meeting spaces with accessible tables, comfortable chairs and improved lighting.
- Establish financial reserves for the future.
We have raised more than $450,000, including funds from the Salem Community Preservation Committee and the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
We need your help to realize the dream of making all these building improvements. Your philanthropic support will make a significant impact.
Our Plan
Why are we embarking on the largest project in our history?
It’s time! The Salem Athenaeum’s historic building in the heart of the McIntire District was built in 1907, well before conservation or universal access was integral to building practices. We need to protect our books, which are in every room, as well as the stacks. We need to make the building as accessible as possible, and make everyone feel welcome. The library serves as a resource for the whole community, and we want to remove barriers to access.
What is our plan?
- Create a welcoming path to the front door and to the garden that is accessible to all.
- Adapt all public spaces to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including adding accessible restrooms.
- Introduce an elevator to all floors, including the staff office.
- Improve the lower level with new restrooms, catering space and amenities to support library and program operations.
- Install an all electric energy efficient HVAC system to protect the collections by improving building ventilation and temperature control.
- Protect the building and the collections with a fire suppression system.
- Improve lighting, safety, and security throughout the building.
The planning is being done thoughtfully and carefully to preserve the historic character of our building while making it accessible and comfortable for all.
Progress to Date
We have completed a Schematic Design Phase which involved
- Working with Landworks Studio, a Salem-based landscape architecture firm, to design a welcoming, accessible path to our front door, and to our garden from Essex Street,
- In May 2025, the Salem Historical Commission approved Landworks’ innovative design for a walkway, ramp, and bridge system which creates an inviting setting adjacent to the building.
- We worked with structural and mechanical engineers to determine how to integrate all new infrastructure – including a new HVAC system, all new electrical and plumbing services, a 4-stop elevator, and an accessible restroom on the first floor.
- Developed cost estimates for all these improvements, so we can start to plan a phased implementation.