Dear Mayor Leng,
On behalf of the Whitneyville Civic Association, we are writing to request information on your plans for addressing the physical repairs at the Whitneyville Branch of Hamden Public Library. As you know, the library building has not been well maintained over many years and now requires a number of repairs. These include new carpeting, ceiling tiles, repairs in the bathroom, stairs and basement, new paint / siding and removal of the exterior oil tank (among others).
- What are your priorities for repairs and/or capital improvements to the Whitneyville Branch?
- What are the timelines for completing different repairs?
The Whitneyville Library is an essential community center in our neighborhood. The library is filled with patrons using the computers, checking out books and videos, reading to their children, receiving tutoring or help with schoolwork, and meeting their neighbors. It is a hub for family programs and activities. Even with limited weekday hours, the library is an important gathering place for people of all ages.
The Whitneyville Civic Association is discussing ways to publicize the Library’s Saturday hours, so people who work during the week can also enjoy the library. The Saturday schedule has been inconsistent and not widely publicized, so many of our neighbors are not aware of the Saturday schedule. The Civic Association discussed different ways to promote and support the library, including through our email distribution list and Facebook page, and at local events including the Fall Festival and summer Music Slams.
Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to working with you to address needed building repairs and to expand the use of the Whitneyville Library beyond the weekdays.
Sincerely,
Janet Kazienko
Whitneyville Civic Association President