The Gleason has moved! We are kicking off our interior renovation this summer and will be offering library services at 1 River Road during construction. Browse new books and a limited selection of library collections for all ages; other items may be requested from other libraries for pickup in Carlisle. Photocopier, public computers, and a small quiet study area will also be available.
The expected timeline is 9-12 months. We are looking forward to reopening in mid-2027 with a new teen area, new and improved spaces for quiet study and community events, improved layout and acoustics, ADA and code compliance improvements, and important HVAC and elevator updates.
See below for detailed FAQ, and please contact Martha at mpatten@gleasonlibrary.org or 978-369-4898 with any questions!
Gleason Public Library – Temporary Closure and Moving FAQ
How long will the library be closed?
The renovation project is estimated to take 9 to 12 months; we look forward to reopening at 22 Bedford Road in summer 2027.
How to contact the library:
We can be reached at the same phone number, 978-369-4898, and email, info@gleasonlibrary.org
Will the book drop be available after-hours at the temporary location?
Yes, we have a walk-up book drop next to the entrance at 1 River Road, open 24/7. Items will be checked in daily with the exception of Sundays and holidays.
Can I pick up items from other libraries at the temporary location?
Yes, interlibrary requests will be delivered to the temporary location from other MVLC libraries through our online catalog, and statewide through the Commonwealth Catalog, as usual.
Are museum passes and Library of Things items available at 1 River Road?
Yes, museum passes and Library of Things are available! Library of Things items may be browsed and requested online; the actual items are stored in a staff area and not available for browsing in person. If items are reserved at least 24 hours before the desired pickup date, staff will have the items ready for pickup; for same-day requests it may take a few minutes for staff to retrieve the items from the closed stacks.
Will there be Meeting Rooms available at 1 River Rd.?
Beginning in early August, one quiet study room may be reserved or used on a drop-in basis if available.
What will be available at 1 River Rd.?
About 10% of the library collection, including new releases and high-demand titles, is available for browsing. The rest of the Gleason’s collection is in storage and unavailable, but items may be requested from other libraries for pickup at 1 River Road in Carlisle through the MVLC catalog and the statewide Commonwealth Catalog. Gleason staff are also offering “book bundles”, for which we select several books for you to try based on your interests and preferences.
We also have our photocopier, printer, public computers, museum passes, kids’ collection display case, and Library of Things.
What will happen to regularly scheduled library programming while the library is closed?
Library programming will continue as scheduled at multiple locations in Carlisle. Visit our events calendar for details.
You can read more about this year’s Summer Reading Program, Plant a Seed: Read! On our website or email childrens@gleasonlibrary.org for information.
What will the public service hours be at 1 River Rd.?
We will be open for our regular library hours:
- Monday: 10 am – 9 pm
- Tuesday: 10 am – 9 pm
- Wednesday: 1 pm – 9 pm
- Thursday: 10 am – 9 pm
- Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Saturday (until end of August): 10 am – 1 pm, (after Labor Day): 10 am – 5 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Please contact Martha at mpatten@gleasonlibrary.org or 978-369-4898 with any questions!