Tewksbury Township Public Library · Oldwick, New Jersey
Restoring a Landmark
An account of the restoration of our 217-year-old library building, published by the Library Board.
From the Library Board
To our patrons
We are excited to share that the Tewksbury Township Public Library restoration project is underway, with the goals of preserving the building’s history and architecture, making necessary repairs and updates, and enhancing the library’s functionality.
This building has stood at the heart of Oldwick for more than two centuries. Preserving it is not simply a matter of bricks and mortar — it safeguards a piece of our shared history and keeps this a place where the community can gather, learn, and borrow freely for generations yet to come.
The months ahead will ask something of all of us. The library will close, and our services will move down the street. We are grateful for your patience, and we will keep you informed at every stage.
— The Library Board of Trustees
The work
What the restoration includes
- IAddressing the serious deficiencies in the building’s support structure.
- IISupplementing the inadequate vertical framing members and lintel over the west wall bank of windows.
- IIIRestoring the historic foyer and first floor library room with new wood flooring, paint, and light fixtures appropriate to the architecture.
- IVImproving electrical, mechanical, and computer systems.
- VRegrading the property to minimize water damage to the building foundation.
Progress
Dispatches
The most recent account appears first.
25 August 2026
Design documents finalized, bids expected in September
Connolly & Hickey Historical Architects have qualified several potential construction firms and are finalizing the design and contract documents that will be included in the request to bid the project. We expect to receive bids and select a contractor in September 2026.
The Library Board has signed and returned the New Jersey Historic Trust grant agreement and is awaiting final approval of the paperwork, which is necessary before construction can start. We expect construction to begin in October 2026, and we will provide periodic updates on this progress.
During the closure
Where to find us
Once construction commences, the library will be closed to the public for four to six months. Limited in-person service will be available just down the street at the Christian Education Building in Oldwick.
Books & media
A limited number of new books and DVDs from the adult, teen, and children’s collections will be available. Most of the collection will be in storage during the restoration, but books remain available through inter-library loan.
Holds & pick-ups
Browse the Hunterdon County catalog, request from the entire MAIN system, and collect held items at the temporary location.
Printing & Wi-Fi
Black-and-white and color printing and a copier-scanner will be available, along with public Wi-Fi for guests bringing their own devices.
Storytime
Storytime continues outdoors at the new location until late October. Our regular community groups cannot be accommodated in the pop-up space.
The record
Plates
The schedule
Timeline
Questions
What patrons ask
When will the library close?
How long will it be closed?
Where do I go while it is closed?
Can I still borrow books?
Will Storytime continue?
How will I hear about changes?
Support
Carrying the work forward
This restoration is funded in part by a matching grant of $430,213 from the New Jersey Historic Trust, awarded thanks to the generosity of this community. Phase 3 — interior furnishings, shelving, finishes, lighting, and technology — is still being funded.
Questions may be directed to the Library Board at [email protected] or by telephone at 908-439-3761.
