Grant-Funded Elevator Coming Soon to Glen Rock Library

The Glen Rock Public Library, along with the Glen Rock Borough Council, is excited to announce the start of construction on its long-awaited elevator. With an expected completion date of summer 2026, the project will make the library’s lower-level community space fully accessible for the first time.

More than a decade in the making, the elevator project reflects the Library’s commitment to creating barrier-free community space. Thanks to the efforts of the Borough Council, and especially former Library liaison Jill Orlich, the project will proceed with minimal cost to local taxpayers. The majority of the funding comes from two major grants: $500,000 from a New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Recreation Grant and $199,000 from a Bergen County Community Development Grant designated for ADA-compliant upgrades. The Library will draw on capital reserve funds to meet rising construction costs, and the Borough Council has pledged up to $100,000 to cover exigencies.

The elevator has been a long-standing goal of the Library Board of Trustees, and its construction marks a major milestone for the community.

“Our hope with this renovation is to create a safe, accessible place for Glen Rock residents to gather and enjoy library programs,” said Library Director Kristen Comeaux. “We hear every day that our limited space is valuable and necessary: Glen Rock doesn’t have many free, welcoming places for people to meet—and our recent strategic plan survey only reinforced how important that is.”

The elevator will allow more patrons to fully access library services and programs, regardless of age, mobility, or even whether they arrive pushing a stroller.

“Safe and easy access to the Library’s lower level is essential for all residents, and especially for our senior citizens,” said Anne Ciliberti, Chair of the Glen Rock Senior Advisory Committee. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this long-awaited project a reality.”

The Glen Rock Public Library, a cornerstone of the community, offers many services beyond traditional book lending. The library is a hub for learning that offers programs, museum passes and meeting space. More information about this project can be found at glenrocklibrary.org and an FAQ is here.