KENT, Conn. — The Kent Library Association reflected on a year of growth while outlining future plans during its recent annual meeting.
Around 30 individuals, including staff of Kent Memorial Library and association members, gathered March 28 for a half-hour to review 2025 accomplishments, elect board members, and discuss the evolving role of Kent Memorial Library.
According to the library’s annual report, 2025 was marked by expanded programming, increased community partnerships and significant progress toward a planned renovation and expansion project.
The meeting included routine business, such as the election and renewal of board members, as well as reports from Library Director Sarah Marshall, association leadership, and a financial update. It concluded with a special program, “From Liberty to Legacy: Exploring American Ideals in the Musicals ‘1776’ and ‘Hamilton,’” presented by Michael Langlois.
Sharon Hartwick, co-vice president of the board, announced the departure of three members — YuJung Kim, Ruth O’Meara, and Jim Blacketter — and the addition of new members Gwendolyn Dunaif and Perry Smith. Dunaif brings experience in fundraising and grant writing, while Smith, who has a background in school libraries, will chair the library’s Book Sale Committee.
Fundraising efforts remained a central focus, with a contractor selected for the library’s expansion project and groundbreaking. A ceremonial groundbreaking will be held Saturday, April 25.
In her report, Marshall emphasized strong community engagement and increased circulation across a variety of services. Kent Memorial Library ranked first in Connecticut for volunteer service hours per capita, with nearly 150 volunteers contributing 5,009 hours.
She also highlighted successful programs such as the New Neighbor Social, which brought together about 75 residents, and renewed momentum in youth services, including the launch of a high school book club.
Programming continued to expand across all age groups, with strong attendance at youth, teen, and adult events, including community socials, art films, and special programs.
Circulation trends reflected changing community needs, with significant growth in nontraditional items such as tables, chairs, cookware and equipment available through the library’s “Library of Things,” a catalog of an assortment of houseware items patrons may borrow with a library card. The “Library of Things” was used 312 times — a 65 percent increase.
Digital services saw significant growth as well. “Demand is endless,” Marshall said, noting that 6,367 books, magazines, music and videos were streamed in 2025 — a 42 percent increase over the previous year.
Interlibrary loan activity also rose. The library loaned 1,958 items to other libraries, a 4 percent increase, and borrowed 1,936 items, up 5 percent. However, Marshall noted that the statewide borrowIT CT program, formerly known as ConnectiCard, is facing increasing financial pressure.
The library strengthened its role as a community hub through partnerships with local organizations, schools and cultural groups, continuing to expand its reach and impact across Kent.
Ken Coopper, past board president, said an organization needs traits such as “vision, strong communication, and a lot of energy,” for success.
He credited Marshall with embodying those qualities. “We live in a world that’s rapidly changing, and we have to be cognizant of what’s going on,” Cooper said. “She’s on top of everything. She’s our Energizer Bunny.”
KLA President Sandy Edelman highlighted the library’s steadiness as it balances its role as a community hub while navigating “tremendous uncertainties,” particularly surrounding its renovation and expansion project. She noted that the process — from design and bidding to permitting, hiring, and relocating to a temporary space — has been lengthy and complex, and praised the staff’s dedication throughout.
“We never knew when it would happen,” she said, “but it all worked out.”
Board Executive Vice President Janet Rivkin also commended staff efforts, noting the efficiency of the library’s move to its temporary location.
She praised the team for relocating the library in a single weekend to its temporary home at 10-12 Landmark Lane.
In other news, the library received more than $11,000 in grants and corporate donations, including support from Eversource and employee giving programs, along with additional tribute gifts from community members.
Board member John Walker reported steady finances in 2025, with about $733,000 in revenue. Fundraising from the library gala and the gift card giveaway raffle brought in $311K, which he noted is “over and above what has been done in the past.”
Town funding remained the primary revenue source at $140,000, supplemented by donations, grants, and fundraising. Personnel costs accounted for the largest share of expenses, followed by collections, technology, programming, and building operations.
Non-operating income—largely from investments and gifts—was significant, but capital and related expenses led to an overall net shortfall of roughly $262,000 as the library prepares for a major expansion.
Officials said core operations remain stable, with continued reliance on community support and fundraising to meet future needs.
