Beaumont Library slated for major renovations

BEAUMONT -- The Beaumont Library will be getting some major renovations next month.

According to library administration, the upgrades are needed to address the needs of the growing community. This comes as the Bibliothèque de Beaumont Library was originally constructed to serve a population of 7,000 people -- while the City of Beaumont has now ballooned to more than 24,000 people as of this year.

Administration says that the redesigned library will help maximize the use of their small space, but that they continue to fall short of meeting the need for family play space, study space, and community meeting space. They add that the only path forward will be to eventually construct a completely new library facility.

"Our current library is 8,000 square feet and was built to serve a community of 7,000," said Library Director Laura Winton. "Based on government standards our library should be around 24,000 square feet to serve our population."

Meantime, the renovations on the currently existing facility will see a new layout for better flow, a dynamic children's area, sound panels to improve noise control, improved study spaces, new gathering spaces and seating, and an expanded collection. Library Board Chair Aruna Brennan says the project is two years in the making.

"With the full funding in place, we worked with a design firm during the summer and fall of 2024," said Brennan. "We completed procurement in late 2024 and early 2025, and the required renovation and furniture install will be completed in June."

The library will be closed from June 1 to June 29, with a tentative reopening date set for July 5, 2025.