State Grant Boosts Rockville Library's Efforts During Pandemic

VERNON, CT — The Rockville Public Library has received a grant of more than $30,000 from the Connecticut State Library that will be used support its efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

The exact amount is $34,790.

The library has been providing curbside pickup of library books and materials and last month it reopened to the public on a limited basis.

"The Rockville Public Library serves an important role in our community," Vernon Mayor Daniel Champagne said. "Keeping staff and patrons safe is my first priority. This grant will help us continue to safely operate the library and expand on its mission of enriching the lives of our community by providing access to its resources."

Library Director Jennifer Johnston-Marius said part of the grant will be used to purchase cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment for the staff. She said she would also like to use the grant to buy furniture that is easier to sanitize, along with furniture for outside the library for patrons who come to use its Wi-Fi.

"Some patrons come to the library and sit in their cars in the parking lot to use the internet to read or complete other tasks," Johnston-Marius said. "We would like to create outdoor spaces so those patrons will be more comfortable when they visit."

The grant is part of $2.6 million in coronavirus relief funds that Gov. Ned Lamont set aside to support libraries as they make health and safety improvements and work to provide more services during the pandemic.

"We are trying to serve the public as best as we can during this time," Johnson-Marius said. "The more we can do the better."