Reed Memorial Library has completed a nearly year-long renovation of its program preparation kitchen; an upgrade officials say will allow the historic library to offer new food-related and STEAM programs.
The project modernized the kitchen with stainless-steel amenities and added a freezer—the first in the library’s 113-year history. The improvements also addressed long-standing structural issues that had limited how the space could be used for library programs.
The work was funded through $20,000 in state bullet aid secured by Assemblyman Matt Slater.
Library Director Denise Martens said the improvements will expand the types of hands-on programs the library can offer to families and other patrons.
“By modernizing our program preparation kitchen with stainless-steel amenities and adding a freezer for the first time in our 113-year history, we solved long-standing structural challenges and unlocked brand-new possibilities for all of our patrons,” Martens said. “We can now deliver interactive STEAM and food programs that were previously out of reach.”
Slater joined library officials to mark completion of the project.
“Libraries play a vital role in our communities and serve as essential community hubs,” Slater said. “By investing in our libraries, we can ensure they continue to provide modern, accessible programming and services that meet the needs of our communities while preserving these important institutions for generations to come.”
Martens thanked Slater for securing the state funding, saying it was an example of public funding directly benefiting local families.
Reed Memorial Library, located in Carmel Hamlet, is the oldest library building in Putnam County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Article provided by Assemblyman Slater's office
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here