Construction Kicks Off at the Historic Hyannis Public Library
Marking the beginning of the first major transformation of this cherished Main Street landmark in over fifty years.
The $8.5 million renovation and addition project for the Hyannis Public Library, carefully balances historic preservation with forward-thinking design, replacing the deteriorating 1970s wing with thoughtfully interconnected spaces while preserving the original 1830 Cape-vernacular building and the 1938 masonry structure that together define the library’s character.
Early work is focused on the Eagleston and Hinckley wings, where several key efforts are advancing simultaneously. Targeted masonry repairs are creating watertight basement storage to protect the library’s collections and ensure the long-term durability of the historic structure. Between the two wings, excavation is well underway for a new ADA-compliant wheelchair lift — and the concrete pad has now been poured, an important milestone that brings the library a significant step closer to full accessibility for every visitor. Beneath the Hinckley Wing, early infrastructure upgrades are setting the stage for the modern systems that will support expanded programming for decades to come. Inside, the historic Eagleston Reading Room is being carefully prepared for restoration, a process requiring meticulous attention to preserve the craftsmanship of this signature space.
Douglas Kallfelz, Co-founder & Managing Partner, UNION
When complete, the renewed library will feature flexible meeting spaces, a commercial teaching kitchen, an assembly space that transforms into a dance studio, and whimsical children’s and young adult areas — all within a contemporary Cape Cod aesthetic respectful of the building’s heritage. The project creates a bridge between generations, adapting the space for evolving community needs while deepening the library’s role as a vital center for learning, creativity, and connection for Hyannis’s diverse population of year-round residents, seasonal visitors, and underserved community members.
