Public Library of New London

What does one do when you cannot print because you’re staying on a military base? No Kinkos for over 40 miles? Staples costs an arm and a leg? Well, the old fashioned public library saved the day ($.10 a page, cash only) If you’re just in town for a minute and aren’t a patron, they do have computer guest passes that you can utilize without having to join. The staff were super helpful and friendly, and didn’t mind that I camped out for a while or had more than a few questions about New London.
New London’s library is clean, laid back, and as Brian S. outlines in great detail, fully functional and modern inside (love the natural lighting of the entrance), but the original section is still beautifully intact.
Also, don’t forget to sign in for parking that is complimentary for patrons.

Granite
and
sandstone
The original New London Library was completed in 1891 and was designed by the famous architect Henry Richardson. Only about 4,000 or so square feet, it was constructed in the common Romanesque style that was so common back then.
The library was lovely with the pink granite contrasting with the sandstone trim but as New London’s population increased it was obvious that the library needed more room.
So in 1974 another 15,000 square feet were added and then additional renovations took place in 2001 and 2006. The library still had the lovely original part but now most of it had a more mundane and practical modern appearance.
The library is spacious and pleasant inside with lots of public computers and wifi along with a fine selection of books, magazines and audio. Even has a cool local history and genealogy room.
The old, original section is lovely and massive and reminds me of entering a fortress or medieval castle. The inside has definitely lost some of it’s uniqueness but the library is a very useful, functional and friendly place to get things done.