Madison's Library Director Explains Why Tuesday's Referendum is So Important

Written by Beth Crowley, Library Director of the Scranton Memorial Library

MADISON, CT — On Tuesday, February 7th, Madison taxpayers will have the opportunity to vote on a bond request of $9.1 million towards the $15 million renovation and expansion of the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library.

Through a combination of State grants and private donations, the remainder of the needed funds will be raised by the Library. To date, the Library has raised $4.5 million including a recent donation of $102,000 from the Trustees of the East River Reading Room.

Scranton Library’s long-awaited and much needed building project will address the severe space and access issues that the library has been experiencing for the last 18 years. The plan going before the voters tomorrow is the result of almost five years of planning and design work to create a right-sized library. A library that promises brighter futures for all of Madison’s residents, local businesses and civic organizations for decades to come.

The plan will add 20,000 square feet to the current library building and includes:

• an expanded and improved children’s room including a 922-square-foot program and craft room.
• a dedicated Teen Center with additional computer stations, expanded teen collection, and a state-of-the-art multimedia program room.
• three additional meeting rooms for community groups.
• separate quiet reading and group study areas.
• a self-serve café with snacks, beverages and seating.
• a better proportioned, 1100-square-foot program room directly off the main entrance that seats 90 attendees.
• on-site parking for approximately 45 vehicles.

There is a significant economic and financial impact on the Town by having an improved library with adequate space and parking. According to their most recent research, the American Library Association reports that when a library is located in a business center, library users say they will also spend money, referred to as halo spending, at the businesses located nearby.

However, Madison is losing these patrons to our neighbors each year. Last year there were 21,808 checkouts to Madison residents at the Guilford Library and 11,667 checkouts to Madison residents at the Clinton Library.

If the bond is approved, residents can expect a tax increase of about $80 per year on a home valued at $400,000 or less than $7 per month.

Investing in a library makes good financial sense in terms of return on investment. The Library serves every person in the community from the youngest patron to the oldest citizen. For every tax dollar received, the Scranton Library gives back $5 in materials and services.