When the Fall River Public Library first opened to the public in March 1899, the Fall River Daily Herald and the Evening News both were careful to note that the building was “entirely fire-proof.”

 

But when it comes to water, poor workmanship on the building’s roof in recent years has led to chronic and alarming leaks — not ideal for a building full of rare paper.

 

The library is currently undergoing more than $800,000 worth of major repairs both inside and out that Director Fellisha Desmarais said will “stop the leaks, hopefully completely.”

 

Work on the North Main Street building is expected to last a few months. But beyond the vital maintenance, Desmarais has renovation plans that will beautify the building and expand what it offers to patrons, including adding a theater space.

 

On the Fall River Public Library’s second floor, the vaunted research room is shrouded in plastic. Where research librarians and patrons used to do their work, you’ll find scaffolding, power tools and exposed brick.

 

The rear of the historic 19th century building is covered in scaffolding as well, busy with workers from East Coast Masonry & Restoration, hired to repoint the building’s exterior, made of original Fall River dressed granite.

 

See more at heraldnews.com.