Update on the Cultural Building Renovation Project

Background

The renovation of the Maine Cultural Building — home to the Maine State Library, Museum, and Archives — began as an emergency response to a major HVAC system failure in the spring of 2020. Engineers quickly determined that the aging system was beyond repair and required a full replacement. However, before new systems could be installed, extensive asbestos remediation was necessary throughout the facility. As work progressed, the project expanded to address a wide range of long-standing issues that had been documented in building surveys for more than two decades.

What You Can Expect

When the library completes its move back to the Cultural Building in late 2025, visitors will find a building that has undergone a comprehensive modernization that improves public spaces, enhances behind-the-scenes infrastructure, and supports long-term preservation of Maine’s cultural resources.

Changes You'll Notice

Library users will notice a variety of updates that enhance both the look and function of the building:

• New Flooring and Paint: Fresh paint and updated flooring throughout public areas replace decades-old carpeting and help brighten the space.
• Improved Lighting: Hundreds of new fixtures now illuminate the library's three floors and building exterior, offering brighter, more energy-efficient lighting with modern controls.
• Flexible Shelving: Most shelving in public areas is now mobile, allowing library staff to easily reconfigure spaces for events, programs, and changing user needs.
• Improved Internet: The entire network was rebuilt from scratch with new wired connections to public computers and a stronger and faster Wi-Fi connection for patrons using their own devices.
• ADA-Compliant Restrooms: Restroom facilities have been renovated to improve accessibility for all patrons.

Behind the Scenes Improvements

Not all updates are visible to the public—but they make a big difference in the services we provide and the care of our collections:

• Modern HVAC System: A new, energy-efficient system helps regulate temperature and humidity—critical for preserving rare and fragile materials housed in the library, museum, and archives.
• Updated Plumbing and Electrical: Infrastructure upgrades improve the reliability, safety, and sustainability of building operations.
• Expanded Storage Capacity: The library’s non-public storage floor now features compact shelving, nearly doubling our capacity for storing books, government publications, and archival materials.
• Building Envelope Upgrades: Repairs to the roof, walls, and exterior, along with new insulation and windows, improve energy efficiency and climate stability.
• Enhanced Safety Features: The fire detection system has been modernized, with additional building improvements ensure compliance with updated building codes.