Charlie Breitrose
The East Branch Library could be sold after the Town Council approved soliciting bids on the site.
The Town Council approved the final terms of the sale of the former East Branch Library to the St. James Armenian Church.
The former library at 481 Mt. Auburn Street will become part of the St. James campus. In April, the Town Council agreed to sell the building and the property for for $1.2 million.
The St. James Parish Council agreed to some deed restrictions, including that it won’t be used for parking. Eventually the building will be torn down.
Before agreeing to sell the library building, Town officials looked for groups interested in leasing the building. There were some challenges. The building, which was last used as a library in 2007, had fallen into disrepair and would require nearly $1.5 million to bring up to current standards. Also, there is no parking lot and the property slopes significantly in the back.
There were a few changes, one of which concerned Town Councilor Angeline Kounelis, who said she still supports the sale.
“The rear setback is 20 feet and the Church Fathers requested that it be 15 feet,” Kounelis said. “I have concerns because there are residential abutters on the south side, and I hope that the Church Fathers are considerate to the neighbors.”
The Council voted unanimously to approve the final conditions for the sale of the former library.
Been wondering about this property for some years. Glad that it’s finally going to be used again by someone. Guess my idea of artist’s studios will have to wait for another opportunity–probably one that doesn’t require $1.5 million in repairs.
Although I do wish it could have remained a library. I worked there from the time I was 14 – 17 years old. I’m glad the building finally sold. Also glad St. James Armenian Church bought it.
Now it’s way past time to do something with the building and property of the old North Branch Library!