Governor M. Jodi Rell
today announced that $500,000 in state funds to help finance
the construction of a new Suffield Public Library is expected
to be approved later this month by the State Bond Commission.
The library will be located at 50 North Main Street.
The new library will replace
the Kent Memorial Library, which has been deemed too small
for the town’s needs, does not meet current standards
for patrons with disabilities and which has inadequate parking.
“Libraries are often
the focal point of Connecticut towns, providing unique resources
to students and parents, young and old,” Governor
Rell said. “Our libraries nourish creativity and open
our minds. They are quiet havens of learning and development
and I am pleased that the state is able to lend a hand in
opening this new chapter for the citizens of Suffield.”
The Kent Memorial Library,
with just 14 parking spaces for staff as well as patrons,
will be razed and the new library will be built on the same
site. Kent Memorial was built to house 26,000 books, and
yet now has 95,000.
“Kent Memorial
is literally bursting at the seams and this new facility
will serve the town for years to come,” said Senator
John A. Kissel of Enfield, whose district includes Suffield.
“A modern, well-equipped library is one of the most
important services a community can offer its citizens. I
want to thank Governor Rell for responding to this need
and securing this funding. I know the people of Suffield
– and especially the children – are grateful.”
The Suffield library
project is one of several library improvement projects to
be acted upon when the Bond Commission meets January 27.
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