House Republican Press Release

January 27, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Gov. Rell, Rep. Gibbons: $323,207 Grant Okayed for Byram-Shubert Library Improvements

The State Bond Commission has approved a $323,207 grant for an addition and various upgrades to the Byram-Shubert Library, Governor M. Jodi Rell and state Representative Lile R. Gibbons, R- 150^th District, announced today. The Bond Commission approved the funding at its monthly meeting today (Friday, January 27^th).

The funds will be used to provide greater access to library programs, services, and technological resources for residents. Presently, the library has no computer center, children’s programming area, Young Adult section, or director’s office, and the multipurpose meeting room is inadequate. The Library will construct an addition of approximately 4,875 sq. ft. on town-owned land. 

“The Byram-Shubert Branch is a dynamic community center,” Governor Rell said.  “Despite its small size, this branch library is heavily-used by local residents who are from an area more economically disadvantaged and ethnically diverse than other areas in Greenwich. 

"I am delighted that the Byram-Shubert Library will be receiving this grant. This neighborhood library is full from morning to night with children reading books, teens using computers and adults holding community meetings. This funding will contribute significantly toward achieving the library’s goals of expanding its physical plant and providing wider services to patrons," Representative Gibbons said.

 “All across the state, we are taking a close look at our local libraries to see where improvements are needed and where long-term fixes can be made. Our libraries nourish creativity. They open our minds. It is our obligation to preserve them so that our children and grandchildren may reap the same benefits from this resource as we have. That is why I am proud to announce this funding for Greenwich,” Governor Rell said.

The library is located at 21 Mead Avenue.