BURLINGTON—The town library expansion that has been nearly a decade in the making took a major step forward today with the groundbreaking of the $3.1 million project, of which the State of Connecticut is contributing $1 million.
Senator Beth Bye (D-West Hartford) joined about 30 local town, library and building officials today to turn a ceremonial shovelful of earth on the project that will increase the size of the Burlington Public Library by approximately 40 percent, adding 3,500 square feet to the existing 8,950 square-foot library.
“This is a big project for the Burlington community, one that will be here for generations,” Sen. Bye said. “I’m really proud that the state has a fund specifically to help libraries in Connecticut. It shows the great partnership that exists between the state and all its various cities and towns, which is why we have one of the best qualities of life in America right here in Connecticut.”
State Librarian Kendall F. Wiggin agrees.
“The one million dollar state grant represents a belief by the Connecticut legislature that libraries are important in Connecticut—not just for books, but as places for people to meet and come together as a community,” Wiggin said. “This money from the state is an important and significant contribution to this project.”
The new library addition will feature interior renovations throughout the existing building; a 100-seat public meeting room with its own entrance, two conference rooms, additional bathrooms, a larger kitchen, a dedicated teen room, a larger local history room with increased storage, an expansion of the children’s room, and other site improvements.
In December 2013 the State Library Board—using funds provided in the state budget—approved a $1 million construction grant for Burlington. In March 2015, Burlington voters approved borrowing up to $3.125 million (minus the state’s $1 million) to build the addition.