Fogg Library Restored and Reopened to the Community

Fogg Library Ribbon Cutting Event Slideshow (click here)

Weymouth’s historic Fogg Library in Columbian Square reopened its doors on April 28th to a crowd of dignitaries, neighbors, and patrons.  The opening celebrated the building’s restoration to original grandeur following nearly nine years and almost $3.5 million in public work.    

The Fogg Library first opened as a private library in 1898 with funds donated by John Fogg, a local shoe manufacturer and banker.  In 1975, the Town of Weymouth assumed ownership of the property as a branch facility of its public libraries.  The building, made from Weymouth granite and listed on National Register of Historic Places, was originally constructed at a cost of $34,580.  It featured a slate roof, lofty ceilings, stained-glass windows, fireplaces, and carved-oak columns, bookcases and stairs.       

In 2005, the Fogg Library was closed to the public when leaking water caused extensive damage.  By 2010, the Town of Weymouth had completed exterior repairs and restorations to the building.  The interior makeover, which totaled about $1.5 million, was supported by Community Preservation Act funds, Community Development Block Grant funds, Southfield Host Community Agreement funds, and the Massachusetts Preservations Project Funds Grant Program.

The goal of the Fogg Library Restoration Project was to not only return the property to its freshly dedicated splendor but also expand its functionality as a public resource and social center.  In addition to restoring the building’s original woodwork and other Italian Renaissance-style features, the Town installed an elevator, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, public meeting rooms, wireless internet access, and updated air conditioning and heating systems.  The building also features a combination of new furnishings and local antiques.  In addition, its walls are decorated with numerous portraits of historic Weymouth figures as well as a collection of Edmund Aubrey Hunt paintings.        

Please view our slideshow to see photos of the Fogg Library ribbon cutting ceremony.  The branch will be open to the public 28 hours a week: Monday and Tuesdays from 1pm to 9pm; Wednesdays from 5pm to 9 pm; and Thursdays from 9am to 5pm.

(Cover Photo Source: http://weymouth.wickedlocal.com/article/20140429/NEWS/140426291/0/SEARCH)