Milford, NH, is gearing up for a significant upgrade to its Wadley Memorial Library, as the Town Council has proposed a $250,000 bond to construct two new restrooms on the library's lower level. This initiative, discussed during the February 1, 2025, Town Deliberative session, aims to enhance safety and accessibility for patrons, particularly given the increased usage of the recently renovated New Hampshire room.

Currently, the library only has restrooms on the main floor, which poses challenges for visitors using the lower level. The proposed restrooms will be fully ADA compliant, addressing long-standing accessibility issues with the existing facilities, which date back to the 1980s. The project has garnered strong support from the majority of the board of selectmen and the budget committee, who voted 9-0 in favor of the article.

Library trustees emphasized the importance of this project, noting that it would not only improve patron experience but also allow the library to better serve community groups that utilize the meeting room on the lower level. The funding plan includes $25,000 from the library's maintenance and upkeep capital reserve fund, with the remainder covered by the bond.

During the meeting, a motion was made to clarify the article's language, changing "new restrooms" to "two restrooms" to accurately reflect the project's scope. This amendment was approved unanimously, ensuring that voters will clearly understand the proposal when it appears on the ballot.

As Milford residents prepare to vote on this important enhancement, the library's leadership is optimistic about the positive impact the new facilities will have on community engagement and accessibility.