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Newsletter - August 2021
Letter from the Director
Dear Friends,

I would like to introduce myself. My name is Lorna Rhyins (Rī ’-ĭnz) and I am the new Library Director.
 
I began my career in libraries over 25 years ago as a Library Assistant and have functioned in many different library roles over the years. Most recently, I was the Director at the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library in Monroe. Like all librarians, I am an avid reader and am passionate about discussing books and promoting literacy. I also enjoy hiking with my husband, morning walks with my dog, vegetable gardening, and visiting with my two adult children.
 
I love my job and I continue to be impressed by the ways that libraries manage to adapt to meet the changing needs of their communities. In New Milford, the current building project combined with the COVID-19 pandemic to close our building, yet staff has still managed to serve the community through curbside pick-up, increased downloadable collections, and programming that is both online and off site. Librarians always find a way!
 
I am very excited for the opening of the beautiful new library in January of 2022. My goals include developing collections and programs that reflect a culturally diverse world; and reaching out to Town and local organizations to create partnerships and services that meet the changing needs of the community. I look forward to meeting each of you and hearing your ideas for your future library.
 
Warm regards,
 
Lorna Rhyins
Library Director
New Building Update
A lot has happened since our last building update! As of the beginning of August, our project is still running on time and within budget. What we used to call the 1970s building is now the 2021 building! The new upper level is fully framed and mostly enclosed with the project now at 55% completion. Concrete floors have been poured and most walls are in place. Drywall and taping crews have completed many areas so the interior of the building is starting to take shape. Spaces like meeting and study rooms for the public and a generously sized History Room are now clearly defined. In the last week, crews have started installing windows and applying the building’s exterior insulation.

A Clerk of the Works is on site every day managing any issues that arise and serving as the project coordinator.

The Library Board of Trustees have been very involved in the project. In addition to providing $1 million toward updates, the Board is paying for furnishings and improvements to the 1897 house. A restored Reading Room is slated to be one of the highlights of the new building, featuring a Persian rug, upholstered seating, occasional tables, and decorative lamps. The old fireplace will be renovated with a glass front and a gas-powered insert for ambiance (no heat). Mosaic tiles in both the fireplace and the front lobby are going to be professionally reset. The Trustees have also ordered stained glass windows for the Reading Room and the stairwell to replace the ones that were sold off during the 1970s renovation.

The library construction project is being paid for in part with State funds provided by the CT State Library. The remainder is being paid for by the Town of New Milford and the above-stated funds from the Library Board. A Grand Opening is planned for the end of January 2022.
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