After working for years to come up with a plan to save the Old Soutworth Library, a nonprofit arts group will officially become the building's new tenant to operate an arts center at the historic building.

The Dartmouth Cultural Center signed a three year lease for the 404 Elm Street building on August 27. The building, which has been vacant since Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust moved to its new Chase Road location, dates back to 1889.

When DNRT moved out, the town initially planned to sell the building, but Town Meeting members made it clear they wanted to see the town retain ownership, and voted a sale down in 2016.

Since then, the town has issued three requests for proposals. The cultural center has responded to all three, and was the only respondent to the most recent proposal. The group convinced the town to extend deadlines and to work through zoning and use issues relating to its proposal, but now, that work is complete.

“They’ve got all of their ducks in a row, all the details together,” said Town Administrator Shawn MacInnes.

The group was awarded a three year lease to begin on September 1. The lease will cost the group $18,000 for the first year, but they can reduce that cost by offering free cultural activities to the public.

Frank S. Gracie III congratulated the group, and said, “Hard, diligent work pays off.”

The group has planned dozens of classes aimed at adults, including everything from photography to play writing to sushi making. Ceramics and jewelry making classes will be offered off-site at ARTSCAPES in New Bedford.

The Dartmouth Cultural Center is also planning a membership program, including individual and family memberships along with higher tiers for those who would like to give more. Member benefits would include a $10 discount on classes and a $5 discount on workshops, along with eligibility to participate in DCC exhibitions and images of member’s work and a listing on their website.

The Dartmouth Cultural Center will host an open house, registration event, and teacher meet and greet on August 28 from 4 to 7 p.m. in their new home. More information and online registration is available online at www.dartmouthculturalcenterinc.org.