Governor Lamont Joined by Interim State Librarian Maureen Sullivan Announces Grant to the East Hartford Public Library as part of Everybody Learns Initiative

East Hartford, CT—On October 7, 2020, Governor Ned Lamont was joined by Interim State Librarian Maureen Sullivan to announce that his administration is dedicating $2.6 million of Connecticut’s Coronavirus Relief Funds to support the state’s public libraries as they continue to make health and safety improvements and offer more services to residents amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Governor made the announcement at the Raymond Library in East Hartford. Others in attendance were Sarah Morgan, the Library Director; Mayor Marcia Leclerc; Congressman John Larson; Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona; Doug Casey, Executive Director of CET; and the East Hartford Superintendent of Schools, Nathan Quesnel. Dawn LaValle, Director of the Division of Library Development, and the person who will administer the program, joined Sullivan in representing the State Library.

“We are extremely grateful for this funding opportunity, especially during such unprecedented times,” said Mayor Marcia Leclerc. “The East Hartford Public Library serves as a center for lifelong learning and a gathering place for enrichment, providing free and equal access to information, technology, learning opportunities, and so much more. This generous funding will allow our library to continue to support the community throughout these times of great uncertainty.”

The Governor said the funds will be distributed among 65 libraries across Connecticut based on their size and the number of residents they serve each year, which will allow much of the funding to be allocated to target those that serve low-income urban and rural communities. The funds are anticipated to be largely used to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning supplies, signage, and furniture.

The East Hartford Public Library was awarded a grant in the amount of $45,124 to support reopening efforts.

“We are grateful for the grant, which will enable us to serve the community more effectively during these challenging times,” said East Hartford Library Director Sarah Kline Morgan. “With the funding we plan to expand access to technology and other services through improvements to our equipment and facilities.”

This funding is in addition to the Lamont administration’s Everybody Learns initiative to increase broadband infrastructure and to create public Wi-Fi hotspots that offer free internet access. Many of these have been placed at libraries across the state.

“Libraries offer critical services for the public, including reliable Wi-Fi, access to computers and laptops, supportive learning materials and resources, and librarians who are trained in helping residents access key services,” said Governor Lamont. “Most importantly, libraries provide safe and quiet spaces for people to work and study, which is critical to many people who do not have the environment to do this at home. Especially during this difficult time, libraries and the work of so many generous librarians have played a critical role in supporting K-12 and post-secondary students with remote learning.”

“This investment in our public libraries will enable their leaders and staff to extend and enhance the services and programs that are so valued and important to their constituents and communities,” said Interim State Librarian Maureen Sullivan. “Public libraries have always been places that support education and self-directed learning. They are now a critical community resource for virtual learning.”

Learn more about the Everybody Learns Grants to Public Libraries at libguides.ctstatelibrary.org/dld/ELgrants.

About the Connecticut State Library Division of Library Development

The Connecticut State Library Division of Library Development (DLD) provides leadership, funding, education, and statewide services that enhance a local library's ability to deliver high-quality library service to their community.