Library Park Project

The Conway Public Library is transforming the park adjacent to the library into a vibrant, welcoming public space for everyone to enjoy.

The goal of the proposed redesign of Library Park is to introduce a variety of elements that will make the park more useful to the community and allow the Library to further carry out its mission, which is:

“To equip every community member in their pursuit of knowledge through collections, programs, and services, fostering life-long learning, community engagement, and a vibrant cultural life in the Valley.”

More than four years ago, a dedicated group of volunteers began reimagining this underused area as a safe, inviting destination for children, families, and the entire community. Guided by extensive community input, the Library partnered with Oak Point Associates, a landscape architecture firm based in Biddeford, Maine, to develop a master plan that balances accessibility, recreation, gathering spaces, and natural beauty.

Phase 1: Now Under Construction

Construction on Phase 1 began in August 2026, marking an exciting milestone in this community-driven project.

The first phase represents a $508,400 investment in Conway Village's future and includes:

The Book Plaza and Pavilion, an open-air gathering space featuring artistic "open book" pavers for library programs, performances, community meetings, and special events.
A perimeter fence and landscaped hedges.
A memorial garden.
Restoration and enhancement of the surrounding landscape.

Construction is being completed by Miracle Farms Landscape Contractors of Meredith, New Hampshire, a company with more than 25 years of experience in quality site development, landscaping, and hardscape construction.

Photo courtesy of Rachel Sharples, Conway Daily Sun

Funding the Project

In August 2023, the Conway Public Library was awarded a $340,000 matching grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). Since then, generous support from individuals, businesses, and foundations has raised an additional $225,000, making it possible to begin construction of Phase 1.

This project reflects the remarkable commitment of our community to creating a shared public space that will serve residents and visitors for generations.

Looking Ahead: Phase 2

Planning is already underway for Phase 2, with construction anticipated in 2027.

The second phase, estimated at approximately $195,000, will include:

A sidewalk connection to Main Street.
A stone dust loop pathway.
A StoryWalk®.
A family play and picnic area.
Additional shaded seating.
Native plantings and expanded landscaping.
Preservation of a generous open lawn for community use and informal recreation.

A Community Investment

This project represents a shared investment in the future of our community. The new park will provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for children, families, and seniors, strengthen the vitality of Conway Village, and ensure that the Library continues to serve as a vibrant community hub for generations to come.

The Conway Public Library is deeply grateful to the many donors, businesses, foundations, volunteers, and community members whose generosity has made this project possible. Continued support will help bring Phase 2 to life and complete this exciting community resource.

We invite you to explore the project plans, follow construction progress, and learn how you can help make the vision a reality.

Please consider donating to the Friends of the Conway Public Library in support of the Library Park re-design today!

The Friends of the Conway Public Library is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

For more information, please contact the Conway Public Library

(603)447-5552 or jbeavers@conwaypubliclibrary.org

or speak with any of the Library Park Project committee members: Ginny Nossiff, Kim Murdoch, Tessa Narducci, Glynis Knox, Shirley Young, Jeanne Wright, Jeff Beavers