For sale: Matson Public Library

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PRINCETON — The Princeton Public Library Board hopes to sell its former 15 Park Ave. West library building later this spring.

On Monday, Princeton Public Library Board President Laurie Bonucci said she will meet this week with area real estate professionals to get their recommendation on selling the property, which includes the former library building, the lot to the north of the building, and a small strip of property to the east of the building. The building and lots could be sold as one unit or separately.

After meeting with real estate professionals, Bonucci said she expects the library board will need to meet in special session to discuss how to sell the property, whether as a whole or as separate parcels, and whether the property will be sold by sealed bid or by public auction.

At the library board’s February meeting, Bonucci reported the library board now has a clear title to the former Matson Library property and building. The clear title gives the library board the authorization to put the building and property up for sale. The 15 Park Ave. West building had originally been stipulated for exclusive use as a library.

Princeton Zoning Officer Pete Nelson has said the 15 Park Ave. West property is currently zoned as Business 1, which is for pedestrian-style retail businesses. Those types of businesses could include, in part, things like some limited professional offices, an art gallery, bank, restaurant or a social club or lodge.

Any change of use from the previous library use would need to be reviewed by the city to make sure it complies with city codes, Nelson said.

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