The city of Medford recently announced that the Medford Public Library is applying for a grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to meet the growing demand for library services with expansion and improvements to the building.

The enhancements to the library will provide the community with additional public use spaces, such as meeting rooms, community program spaces, a gallery and lounge space. The development will also allow the library to expand its youth services, including a dedicated space for children and young adults.

“We’re very excited about improving services and having more public space,” said Medford Public Library Director Barbara Kerr. “Libraries are embracing a future of community interaction, and this is an essential aspect of what we are aiming to incorporate in Medford. Currently, we do not have enough space to implement all of the innovative and creative ideas that we would like to offer.”

The construction grant is a multiyear process and, if awarded, construction would likely begin in 2020.

“The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners grant allows the city to explore necessary updates to the library through an architectural feasibility study, an engineering analysis of the existing building or potential project management services,” said Mayor Stephanie M. Burke. “Our library is an essential asset to the community. The state funding would assist in the initial step toward implementation and renovation for all residents of our community.”

The Medford Public Library is seeking input from the community. Focus groups will be held Tuesday, May 31, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 5, from 1-3 p.m., at the Medford Public Library, 111 High St.

To RSVP: 781-395-7950; medford@minlib.net.

Feedback is also being gathered via a public survey, which can be accessed at surveymonkey.com/r/MedfordLibrarySurvey until June 10.

There will also be paper copies available at the library.