Library's New Community Room Becoming Reality

The East Haven Town Council Tuesday approved what was described as a much-needed new community room for the .

Library Board Chairman Eileen DeMayo said construction should begin this fall on the new facility, converted from the library’s old, underused rear garage structure.

"I just know this will turn out to be a really good addition to our community," said Town Council Chairman James Dougherty just before the unanimous approval.

Library Director Karen Jensen said the new community room will be funded entirely through grants and gift funds, and will not cost the town anything.

The project did require Town Council approval before it could go forward. It previously received a favorable recommendation by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Jensen said the current community room is too small for the library’s needs and is not easily accessible for persons with physical disabilities.

The new community room will be directly accessible from the rear parking lot and from the library’s children’s department. It could also be used separately while the rest of the library is closed.

DeMayo said during the summer when more children use the library, it is very obvious by the way children’s programs fill up that they need more space.

Jensen said it would mean the Hagaman Memorial Library could expand programs for children and adults, and provide better facilities for handicapped persons.

The new room originally was included in a library renovation plan proposed in 1997. Although that plan did not go forward, much of it was done in bits and pieces over the years, including a new HVAC system, energy-saving windows, carpets and paint.

Jensen acknowledged DeMayo and her husband, Anthony, for pushing the community room project ahead.

"It exceeds my expectations by a long shot," said Anthony DeMayo.

He characterized the library as long-neglected. "It’s about time East Haven got up with the rest of the world."