Sawyer Free Library

OVERVIEW

The Sawyer Free Library project consisted of the renovation and expansion of Gloucester’s historic public library, integrating improvements to the 1913 and 1976 library buildings with the construction of a new addition to create a unified, modern facility. The project preserved and adapted the historic Saunders House for community use while reconfiguring library spaces to support reading, study, meetings, maker activities, and multimedia programs. Work also included accessibility and wayfinding enhancements through the addition of a central circulation spine connecting the facility’s multiple entrances. Designed with sustainability in mind, the all-electric library achieved LEED Gold certification and features high-performance systems, including VRF heating and cooling, energy recovery ventilation, and advanced LED lighting controls.