New library annex celebrated by community

MILLERTON — The NorthEast-Millerton Library has grown in size over the last few months, and the community was invited last Saturday, Aug. 22, to celebrate the expansion in style with a Family Fun Festival, held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the front and rear of the library’s property.

The biggest news of the day was the purchase of the building previously owned by the First Church of Christ Scientist on Century Boulevard. On July 15, the building was sold to the library, which will work over a period of time to incorporate it physically into the original building.

“It’s the worst possible time to buy a building,� library board President Diane Price acknowledged, “but it’s such a fantastic place! It’s a godsend, and it’s fate that we’ll be able to use the space for the community.�

On Saturday rain drizzled on and off lightly but the library was prepared, erecting a tent on the front lawn and utilizing the new annex for sales and activities.

Green Meadows Farm, based out of New York City, brought a host of furry, creepy, cute and slithery animals, to the delight of the younger children attending.

Inside the annex, there was a book sale, craft fair with jewelry, raffles, clothing and blankets, face painting and tiles set up to be decorated. The tiles will eventually be installed in the annex’s bathrooms.

Residents were able to check out the new digs as well as find a book to bring home, or just sit down and enjoy a story or two right in the annex.

“We’re learning how to build a house,� explained Arabella Negroponte, sitting with her daughter, Lily.

A little after noon Whoopsy Daisy performed her comedy magic show in the reading room of the annex, which Price hopes will become a children’s library. Afterward local band Wooden Nickel entertained with their mix of country, folk and pop tunes.

Some of the offices in the annex will be rented out to local organizations, including the North East Historical Society and Adopt-a-Family.

Some big names dropped by to support the library’s cause. State Sen. Vincent Leibell found himself working on a tile for the bathroom.

“Alright, so I’m better at legislation,� he acquiesced with a smile.

State Assemblyman Marc Molinaro said that supporting local libraries was important, especially in times like these.

“They provide a lot of opportunity for people of all walks of life,� he said. “We need to celebrate them as a community like this, because when times get tough libraries see a much greater use.�

The library experienced a great turnout, according to Price, and this was only the beginning of the events the library will hold in the annex.

“In 10 years time it’ll be amazing,� she said. “I’m thrilled with the turnout as well. The more kids who come here... well, if we take a little ownership, hopefully they’ll stay here.�