House Lust: A Stunning Former Library is on the Market

Peek inside the incredible transformation.

October 6, 2020

I believe I’ve reached peak House Lust.

The former Rumford Library, which closed to the public in 2012 and underwent extensive residential renovations before being sold in 2015, is back on the market.

There’s no sadder closure than a public library — go on, try and think of one — but the silver lining here is the property was purchased by a developer and real estate broker with an appreciation for literature and history. She honored the space with her renovations — click here for an amazing collection of before, in-progress and after photos — then sold it to its next stewards. And now, another set of bibliophiles will get the chance to call this place home.

Truth be told, 1392 Pawtucket Avenue in Rumford would be lust-worthy even without its storied history. Massive paned windows, jewel-toned walls and exposed brick add romance and intimacy to the airy space. Ample bookshelves, complete with a rolling library ladder in the kitchen, would be a boon in any book-loving household. And unusual elements — think: vessel sinks atop antique tea tables in the bathrooms; vintage doors on barn sliders — add style and personality.

And, oh yeah: For more than 100 years it provided visitors with poetry, adventure, history, art, science, spirituality, comedy, romance — all manners of comfort and connection when they most needed it. If that’s not a home, I don’t know what is.

I love this one. Here’s your House Lust:

1392 Pawtucket Avenue, in the Rumford neighborhood of East Providence, is on the market for $679,900. (Photos via Residential Properties)

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The former library, which shuttered in 2012 after more than 100 years in service, underwent extensive renovations in 2013. The finished product is a single-family home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms over 2,798 square feet.

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A historic plaque remains on the building's brick facade.

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This space was once home to the library's check-out desk and was covered in carpeting. The hardwoods are reclaimed maple.

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A view of the entryway and foyer. The circular window over the doorway is original.

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The living area features a fireplace and built-in shelving.

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The 2013 renovations won a Rhody Award for historic preservation.

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The floor plan is open yet structured.

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The open kitchen. A stone sink is sited in the island.

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The kitchen features a Bertazzoni range and glass-paned cabinetry with lattice detailing.

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The home's second fireplace is in the kitchen.

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A view of the breakfast nook in the kitchen with a vintage rolling library ladder.

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Another view of the breakfast nook, with the pantry beyond it.

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An office space is sited off the living room.

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The dining room features a massive skylight.

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The rear of the house is home to the living quarters.

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The master bedroom features a walk-in closet and private bath.

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A view of the master bath with a clay vessel sink atop an antique tea table.

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Another bedroom. Note the vintage sliding doors.

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A view of the second full bathroom.

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The property is .44 acres in total and is within walking distance the Turner Reservoir and Bridgham Farm Conservation Area.

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For more information, contact Residential Properties’ Christine Dupuis at 401-626-1945 or visit residentialproperties.com.