Berkshire Athenaeum Offers Adjusted Services

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's public library, will offer newly adjusted library services to continue its support of patron needs during the pandemic.

While the library building is not open for browsing, individuals can request books, DVDs, books on CD, or other items directly through the library's online catalog or by calling 499-9480, Ext. 4 or emailing the Reference Department at info@pittsfieldlibrary.org. Drop-in or scheduled curbside pickup options are also offered.
 
For a complete schedule of available times, please visit www.pittsfieldlibrary.org.
 
Picked4You is a personal service for readers who typically browse library collections. Patrons describe their interests or favorite authors; and library staff select materials from the adult, young adult, or juvenile collections. The service can be accessed through the Picked4You form on the library's website or by calling or emailing the Reference Department.
 
Book Bundles are offered by the Children's Library. Each bundle contains seven books centered on a theme. Current themes include friendship, sharks, dinosaurs, and mermaids, among others. Additionally, recorded story times and twice a month take-and-make craft kits are available for pickup. For more information, please contact the Children's Library at 499-9480, Ext. 5.
 
For those who want to explore their family history, the Local History department offers a how-to-get-started video, webinars, and database resources available for at-home research. Local History department staff are available for
support and guidance by email at localhistory@pittsfieldlibrary.org and via phone at 499-9480, Ext. 6.
 
Library from Home services include access to a variety of downloadable eBooks, audiobooks, and an expanded
collection of eMagazines. Patrons with expired library cards may call the Circulation Desk for a one-time renewal
by phone, keeping their account active while forgoing the need to visit the library building. Also, the library
continues to offer Kanopy, a high-quality streaming service of classic cinema, foreign films, independent titles, and
Kanopy Kids, a diverse selection of educational and entertaining content that ranges across movies, television series,
animated storybooks, live action, and animated favorites.
 
The athenaeum's popular ‘Library of Things' offers an increased collection of WiFi hotspots available for loan,
courtesy of the Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum. These devices can be borrowed for one week, with one renewal
offered.
 
Patrons who need computer printouts can email their documents directly to the library's print service at
pittsfield8@printspots.com. Library staff will release the prints, which cost 10 cents per page, payable at pickup.
Additionally, a self-serve photocopier is available in the Wendell Avenue lobby during library hours for black ink
copies at 10 cents per page.
 
For more information, please visit www.pittsfieldlibrary.org.

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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Luxurious Home for Hosting

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

DALTON, Mass. — Are you looking for a luxurious home with tons of amenities? Then this might be the home for you.

Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.

This 1998 single-family is newly remodeled and has four bedrooms and four bathrooms. It is 4,298 square feet on more than an acre.

It is on the market for $1,075,000.

The home includes a two-car basement garage, a home gym with equipment, and a custom mudroom. There is also a salt water pool and outdoor fire pit. The kitchen has custom built-in freezer and refrigerator, perfect for hosting, and comes with countless built-in space and custom drawers, including a built-in Miele coffee machine.

We spoke with Mia and Melissa Mazzeo with Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Barnbrook Realty, which has the listing.

What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?

Mazzeos: What truly sets this property apart in today's market is the exceptional quality and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. The sellers didn't just update this home — they reimagined it with care, intention, and craftsmanship. Every improvement was carefully considered, creating a move-in-ready space that feels both elevated and effortlessly livable

What was your first impression when you walked into the home?

It was an instant 'wow' moment. We were immediately impressed — and we absolutely loved the open floor plan. The space feels bright, connected, and perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.

Are there any standout design features or recent renovations?

Yes — this home truly has it all. Since 2018, the property has been fully renovated with both luxury and long-term quality in mind. Major improvements include a new roof, new windows, updated electrical and plumbing systems, new mini-split systems for efficient heating and cooling, new vinyl siding, and Trex decking for low-maintenance outdoor living. The pool has been converted to salt water, and the professionally updated landscaping enhances the home's curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment.

Inside, the level of customization is exceptional. Every detail was thoughtfully designed with built-in space for everything — including a dedicated coffee station, double dishwashers, a pullout shelf for your stand mixer, and custom drawers for cooking utensils. The large Sub-Zero refrigerator blends seamlessly into the cabinetry for a clean, sophisticated look. The dining room features a stunning built-in buffet complete with pullout refrigerator and freezer drawers, perfectly balancing elegance and functionality.

What kind of buyer do you see this home being perfect for?

This home is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for the buyer who loves to host and entertain, but just as ideal for a family seeking space and thoughtful design. And for someone who simply wants a private, peaceful setting to come home to — this property delivers that balance beautifully.

What would you say to a buyer trying to imagine their life in this space?

Close your eyes and imagine your dream home — every update completed, every amenity thoughtfully added, nothing left to do. Picture yourself soaking in the beauty of Berkshire County's ever-changing seasons through the windows of your all-season sunroom. Imagine the laughs and smiles that fill the air as you host loved ones in your chef's kitchen, designed perfectly for gathering and entertaining.

Now open your eyes… and you'll see 65 Johnson Road — the true definition of move-in ready.

You can find out more about this home on its listing here.

*Front Porch Feature brings you an exclusive to some of the houses listed on our real estate page every week. Here we take a bit of a deeper dive into a certain house for sale and ask questions so you don't have to.

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