Hamilton Township was has been awarded $1,567,179 for public library improvements under Congressionally directed Spending through the assistance of Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Andy Kim.
The township says that the library intends to use the funding to make infrastructure improvements such as replacing deteriorating and broken windows, renovating bathrooms and improving the children’s section with new furniture, bookshelves and play areas. All the windows, bathrooms and children’s sections items are original to the building, which opened in the 1970’s.
The Hamilton Township Public Library serves more than 90,000 residents with a range of resources and services, including access to historical databases, meeting spaces, library programs for people of all ages, art shows, technology resources, book sales, township events, a shelter and an employment center.
By updating its infrastructure, the township says, the library hopes to create a more welcoming environment and modern space for all residents to enjoy.
“Updating the library and other outdated infrastructure has been a top priority. The library is a place for our residents to use for a variety of services and these funds will ensure it continues to be a community asset for many more years,” said Mayor Jeff Martin. “I want to thank Sen. Booker and Congressman Kim for their commitment to provide the resources we need to ensure everyone has access to books, the internet and meeting spaces.”
“I am proud to bring over $1.5 million back to address an important local need, in particular to make the library more accessible to members of the community with disabilities and strengthen its resources for kids. Everyone should be able to access the power and opportunity of reading and the expansive resources a local library provides. I am excited to help make that possible in Hamilton, and look forward to continuing to work closely with Mayor Martin and local leaders to see this project through,” said Kim.
Kim is widely considered the favorite to be New Jersey’s Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate this fall, pending the outcome of the primary elections, which are to be held this month.
On hand at the Hamilton Township Public Library to celebrate a recent $1.5-million award are library board president Anthony “Skip” Cimino, library director Scott Chianese, assistant business administrator/board member Joy Kerlin, board member Darrell Vigh, county executive Daniel Benson, Rep. Andy Kim, Mayor Jeff Martin, board member Renee Rogers, board member and secretary Iris Tonti, council president Anthony Carabelli, Jr., and council vice president Rick Tighe.,
