KENT, Conn.—The long-desired expansion to the Kent Memorial Library is expected to begin in February and the library’s collection is on the move.
The library received permission from Planning and Zoning last week to temporarily relocate to 10-12 Landmark Lane in Kent Green, where it will reopen operations in mid-February with all services and some collections. Particular focus will be placed on providing its newest materials.
The existing library will close at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, to allow the move. KML Director Sarah Marshall issued an invitation to all to stop by on Saturday, Jan. 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. for refreshments and a chance to see the current library for the last time. All ages are welcome.
She urges residents to visit the website, which will update as information becomes available. Library staff will check email and phone messages during the relocation.
Those who have been contacted via email or telephone that they have materials waiting for pick up, should do so by Thursday, Jan. 15. No new holds will be placed for pickup in Kent until the library re-opens.
Patrons can use their Kent Library card at any library in Connecticut, such as New Milford or Warren, to order books or to return books borrowed from other libraries.
The annual book sale is closed for the season. Donors are asked hold their book donations until further notice. Donations will again be accepted once the library is established in its temporary location.
Adult and children’s programming will continue until Jan. 17: The library will be fully open until Saturday. Beginning on Monday, Jan. 19, the library will be closed and when possible, programs will occur at other locations. See the library’s calendar for details.
The library is clearing out the old firehouse in preparation for the upcoming renovation and has old equipment that is no longer needed. There are three large wooden storage units that could be used in a garage or workshop. They are solid wood and very heavy, and although they are on rollers,they would require help in moving.
There are five large blue metal rolling shelves, three of which have canvas covers. Lots of plastic tubs, most do not have lids. If interested, send text 954-849-0155 to arrange to meet at the firehouse for pick up. Visit kentmemoriallibrary.org for more information; 860-927-3761. Â
There is still time for community members to help support the $6 million-plus expansion project by purchasing a commemorative brick or paver to honor a loved one to to celebrate your connection to KML.
A $1,000 gift gets a 12-inch by 12-inch paver with eight lines of custom engraving and 20 letters and spaces on each line; $500 purchases an 8-inch by eight-inch paver with six lines and 20 letters and spaces, while a $250 gift buys a 4-inch by 8-inch brick with three lines and 20 letters and spaces.
The pavers and brick will be permanently installed along new walkways and prominent sitting areas around the library grounds