At their mid-year retreat on August 20, 2025, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen reaffirmed their commitment to a transformative expansion project that will bring a state-of-the-art meeting and event center to the heart of Collierville. Although the project is centered on the expansion of the Collierville Burch Library, a notable feature of the 20,000-square-foot addition is the inclusion of a large meeting center, intended to serve the entire community.
With Collierville’s population having grown by 64% since the Library’s original construction in 2001, the Town is investing in a flexible, multi-use space that will meet the evolving needs of residents, from large-scale events to intimate gatherings, educational programs, and private rentals.
“We want to create a place the community can be proud of for many years to come,” said Mayor Maureen Fraser. “This is about more than just additional meeting space for the Library. It’s a resource for everyone.”
The new event center will feature:
- A large venue capable of hosting up to 300 people
- Modular design that allows the space to divide into three separate rooms
- Infrastructure to support community events, civic functions, and private rentals
- A new revenue stream to support Library operations and programming
During the retreat, Library Director Lisa Plath and Deputy Town Administrator Katrina Atkins presented three expansion options “good, better, and best” with detailed cost breakdowns and architectural concepts. The Board’s decision reflects a balanced approach that prioritizes impact while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The Board selected the “better” expansion option, which includes both renovation and new construction. The total estimated cost is $12,259,830—$10,797,820 for expansion and $1,462,010 for renovation. The conference center component represents a significant portion of this investment, underscoring the Town’s commitment to creating a versatile civic space.
Originally part of the Shelby County Library system, the Collierville Burch Library came under Town control in 2004. Since then, Collierville has invested approximately $150,000 in capital improvements, including sliding doors and an Automated Materials Handling (AMH) system. However, many upgrades such as new carpeting, HVAC systems, etc., have been deferred in anticipation of this major expansion.
“We’re looking at the community’s needs as a whole,” said Vice Mayor/Alderman John Stamps. “This expansion isn’t just about books, it’s about building a space where Collierville can come together.”
Alderman Missy Marshall emphasized that the $8.6 million already allocated in the Town’s budget reflects long-term planning and a commitment to thoughtful growth. Additional funding will be sought through community support and fundraising efforts.
The Library renovation and community center/meeting expansion project will also include:
- A vibrant Children’s Area
- A modern Teen Space with updated amenities
- Flexible community rooms for workshops and meetings
- The new event center as a cornerstone of civic engagement
To help elevate the project beyond the essentials, the Board is encouraging the Friends of the Library to launch a Capital Campaign aimed at funding enhancements that will make the new space truly exceptional.
Community members will soon have opportunities to get involved and support the vision for a dynamic, inclusive space that reflects the heart of Collierville.
