Library Wins Grant from the Vermont Department of Libraries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wilder Memorial Library
Contact: Deborah Granquist
dgranquist@me.com
(802) 779-8226

Weston’s Wilder Memorial Library Receives $650,000 Grant

from the Vermont Department of Libraries

Weston, VT – October 10, 2024 — In 2022, the Vermont Department of Libraries was given the responsibility of awarding $15.9 million in grant monies to public libraries in Vermont with funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury Capital Projects Fund. After a very competitive grant process,14 libraries were awarded funds, ranging in size from $174,502 to $1,500,000.

Weston’s Wilder Memorial Library was among the 14, and received a grant of $650,000. The purpose of the grant is to support the library’s plans to renovate its 200-year-old existing building and add 1300 square feet of new space, including a bathroom and running water, improved ADA compliance, increased community space, new HVAC systems and electrical system upgrades, and high-speed broadband access.

Deborah Granquist, Chair of the Library’s Board of Trustees, said, “Our Weston Library Board has been working on this expansion project for many years with great input from the community. This grant will enable the library to continue and expand its work in serving the Weston community as we move on to construction documents, a competitive bidding process and contractor selection. We are grateful for the support from the Selectboard, the Town and the many generous donors who have made this project possible. Many thanks to our trustees and our tireless and dedicated staff – Jessica Clapp, Library Director, and Christine Mix, Librarian.”

Granquist continued, “We also thank the Vermont Department of Libraries for the efficient and fair process that led to the award of grants across Vermont to libraries in small villages and larger towns. The funds will support much needed infrastructure, allowing these libraries to better serve their communities.”

In announcing the grants, Catherine Delneo, Vermont State Librarian, said, “These one-time, substantial grants will address critical building improvements that ensure Vermonters in these communities have continued access to high-speed internet for the purposes of work, education, and health monitoring at their local public libraries.”

Library Director Jessica Clapp said, “Stay tuned! We are on our way. We will be documenting our progress in the press, our website, and social media. And if you would like to support the library campaign and annual fund, please go to the donate button on our library’s website.”