House Republican Press Release

 

 

 

January 23, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

 

Gov. Rell, Rep. Ryan: $143,833 Grant Anticipated for Rowayton Library

 

The State Bond Commission is expected to approve a $143,833 grant to help finance renovations to the Rowayton Public Library, Governor M. Jodi Rell and state Representative John J. Ryan, R- 141st District, announced today. The Bond Commission will act on the funding at its monthly meeting Friday (January 27th). 

“This remodeling project should help modernize many parts of the library and meet the current and future needs of staff and residents. When they are complete, these renovations will produce a more welcoming and easy-to-use facility that is inspirational to children and a valued resource for adults,” Governor Rell said. 

“I am especially pleased that Governor Rell took a personal interest in and supported this funding for Rowayton. We frequently point out that lower Fairfield County communities send substantial amounts of tax revenue to our State Capitol in Hartford. It is always gratifying to get some of our dollars back from time to time in the form of state grants for worthwhile local projects such as these long-awaited renovations to the Rowayton Library,” Representative Ryan said.

The library occupies 2,800-square feet in a multi-use building owned by the Sixth Taxing District of Norwalk and is in violation of certain code and handicapped accessibility requirements. In addition, inefficiencies in the HVAC system have hampered energy conservation.

The library renovation project includes:

·         Construction of a handicapped accessible bathroom.

·         Installation of handicapped accessible stacks, computers and OPAC.

·         Improvements in the HVAC system for energy conservation and code compliance.

·         Window repairs to provide appropriate energy seals.

·         Installation of energy efficient and more effective lighting. 

·         Enhanced ergonomics: lighting, space use, and traffic flow.

·         Service improvements: efficient and handicapped accessible circulation area and an electronic catalog.

·         Abatement of hazardous materials (asbestos tile floors).

The Rowayton Library, which is located at 33 Highland Avenue, moved to that location in 1966 and has not been renovated since then. The library was founded in 1903. The renovation project got underway in 2003 as part of the library’s centennial celebration.