Kent Memorial Library secures funds for expansion
Leila Hawken

Kent Memorial Library secures funds for expansion

KENT — The Connecticut Bond Commission voted to allocate $2 million in funding to support the renovation and expansion of the Kent Memorial Library at its Oct. 22 meeting.

Libraries have become “critically important infrastructure”, said State Rep. Maria Horn (D-64) just before the vote was passed, especially in small towns “where there are fewer places to meet communally.”

“I’m really pleased to see this grant helping one of my little towns,” Horn said, who is a member of the group as co-chair of the Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee.

Library Director Sarah Marshall said the primary motivation behind the expansion plan is “more space for more people.” The new construction will connect the existing library building to the old town firehouse, which sits on the library’s property, and then “renovate everything together to create one big building.”

Marshall said the addition will primarily provide event space, but will also establish quiet workspaces for the town’s growing remote workforce. The new design will also focus on making the building more sustainable.

Marshall is glad that the process, which began with an application to the State Library for a grant in the summer of 2023, is making headway with the approval of the bond allocation.

“We’re hoping – hoping – to break ground late spring,” she said, but acknowledged that several factors could contribute to delays.

“With all the changes ahead, we have no idea what kind of supply chain issues we’re going to face,” she said, noting the possibility of new tariffs on products from abroad.

A lot of the newest HVAC technology comes from foreign manufacturers, she explained, “and we have to be aware of the fact that all of those prices might be about to go up rapidly.”

Latest News

Ann Beizer

CANAAN — It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ann Beizer, who died on Nov. 13, 2024, at the age of 80 after a courageous battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare and debilitating disease that took away her ability to move, see clearly, and swallow. Ann’s strength and resilience throughout her illness was an inspiration to all who knew her, even as the disease took its toll.

Born on Sept. 12, 1944, in Washington, DC, Ann was raised in Glasgow, West Virginia, where both of her parents were school teachers. She earned a Master’s degree in counseling from West Virginia University and went on to teach high school history. Later, she led a not-for-profit organization before becoming the Director of Academic Advising at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). At WPI, Ann also served as a Project Advisor, guiding students on international work projects in Italy and Puerto Rico. Her commitment to education and mentorship earned her a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to Germany, further advancing her career in academic advising.

Keep ReadingShow less
Dr. Fred G. Kantrowitz

SHARON — Dr. Fred G. Kantrowitz, 78, of Medfield, Massachusetts, Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts and Sharon passed away Nov. 13, 2024, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. He was the loving husband of Anne Kirby, devoted father of Gregory and William, father-in-law of Katie and Brittanny, and proud grandfather of Jack, Ava and Jameson.

Fred was born Dec. 10, 1945 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of the late Theo and Dinah (Kotick) Kantrowitz. His own health struggles as a child, intellectual curiosity and desire to help others led him to a career in medicine. Fred’s illustrious medical career was highlighted by nearly 50 years on the Beth Israel staff, more than 30 published works and a chapter as teamdoctor for the Boston Celtics. Later in his career, he developed a reputation for being the doctor to handle only the most complex cases, including long Covid.

Keep ReadingShow less
Rose Moskowitz

CANAAN — Rose Moskowitz, 98, of Geer Village in Canaan, passed away on Nov. 9, 2024. She was the loving wife of the late Bernard Moskowitz.

Rose was born Aug. 2, 1926, in New York City, the daughter of the late David and Regina (Shanker) Gunn.
Rose graduated from high school in the Bronx.

Keep ReadingShow less
Doreen B. Newton

WASSAIC — Doreen B. Newton, 76, a lifelong resident of Wassaic, died on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at Kindred Hospital in Passaic, New Jersey. Ms. Newton was an assistant social worker at Taconic Developmental Disabilities Office in Wassaic, for 30 years, retiring in 2005.

Born on Nov. 24, 1947 in Sharon, she was the daughter of the late William and Doris (Shook) Barlow. She was a graduate of Webutuck High School Class of 1965. An avid reader, Ms. Newton enjoyed mystery novels and crossword puzzles. Above all, she loved her grandchildren.

Keep ReadingShow less