House Republican Press Release

January 23, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Cafero Praises Rowayton Library Grant

Deputy Republican Leader Says Bond Money Much Needed

HARTFORD – State Rep. Lawrence F. Cafero Jr. of Norwalk today praised Gov. M. Jodi Rell for getting a $143,833 state grant to renovate the Rowayton Public Library on the Bond Commission agenda in time for approval at next week’s meeting.

Rell’s office today announced that the grant is expected to be signed off on next Friday Jan. 27 at the regular monthly meeting. Cafero was instrumental is pushing for the money and the Governor has final authority to set the bond agenda.

Cafero noted that the Governor has made commitment to libraries statewide a priority and that the renovation work for Rowayton is timely.

“Our public library is the center of community learning,’’ said Cafero, the House Republican Deputy Leader. “Every day it provides answers and enjoyment for all those that take advantage of this wonderful resource. It is time we make a greater investment in its future.’’

The grant will be sued to renovate the library and bring it up to building codes and make it easier to use for handicapped people. The library moved to its current location at 33 Highland Avenue in 1966 and occupies 2,800 square feet in a building owned by the Sixth Taxing District of Norwalk.

Cafero said that additional worked on the heating and air conditioning system will also take place.

“It is imperative that we make these improvements now so that those young and old and in between have greater access to a user friendly and efficient building,’’ Cafero said.

Additional work will include construction of a handicapped accessible bathroom and accessible stacks; window repairs and installation of energy efficient lighting; removal of asbestos tile floors.