PAULDING — The Paulding County Carnegie Library (PCCL) Board of Directors and administrative team have officially advanced to the next phase of a major development initiative: the construction of a new Community Center on the site of the former library annex. This project marks a historic step forward for the 110‑year‑old institution, which has long lacked adequate space to host public programs and events larger than 20 attendees.
The new Community Center will be built on adjacent property formerly occupied by the office of Dr. Kirkwood Pritchard and, more recently, the Caring & Sharing Food Pantry and the Buy the Book store. The new facility is designed to serve as a flexible, modern hub for educational programming, community forums, scholastic instruction, bilingual training, emergency shelter needs, and expanded library and community events.
The project began to take shape in July 2023 when PCCL received an anonymous matching‑fund donation specifically designated for the development of a community center. This transformative gift enabled the library to begin working with the Paulding County Land Bank, Paulding County Economic Development, and the Maumee Valley Planning Organization to remove the aging existing structure and explore options for a replacement facility.
The previous annex, originally constructed as a physician’s office, has served many community functions over the decades—including OhioMeansJobs, ACE Academy, Caring & Sharing Food Pantry, Buy the Book, and library storage. In recent years, the building required significant repairs, prompting the need for a long‑term solution. Buy the Book has since been relocated to 108 N. Williams Street, where it now shares space at The Fuel Bar.
In September 2024, PCCL issued a Request for Qualifications for architectural services and selected Beilharz Architects of Defiance, Ohio. Over the following months, the library and design team collaborated to create a plan that incorporates advanced technology, flexible event space, and a layout that strengthens the library’s role as an anchor in downtown Paulding. The proposed design includes seating for approximately 100 people, kitchen facilities, office and meeting room space, and a dedicated retail area for the return of the Buy the Book store.
With the demolition of the former annex now complete, the project has moved into its construction phase. At the March 31 board meeting, Rupp Rosebrock was awarded the contract and will lead the build‑out of the new Community Center.
The new Community Center represents a once‑in‑a‑generation investment in downtown Paulding and in the future of the Paulding County Carnegie Library. Construction is expected to begin soon, with updates to be shared as the project progresses.