Yesterday, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) joined leaders from the Reed Memorial Library in Carmel Hamlet in unveiling the completion of a nearly year-long construction project that was made possible through state bullet aid funding that Slater secured. The funding supported modernization efforts at the historic library, helping address long-standing structural challenges while expanding the facility’s ability to provide programming and services to local families.

Reed Memorial Library used the $20,000 bullet aid funding to modernize its program preparation kitchen with stainless-steel amenities and add a freezer, the first in the library’s 113-year history. The improvements will address long-standing structural challenges while allowing the library to expand its programming, including interactive STEAM and food programs that were previously out of reach due to limitations within the facility. Reed Memorial Library is the oldest library building in Putnam County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

“Libraries play a vital role in our communities and serve as essential community hubs. Last year I was proud to deliver funding to Reed Memorial Library, and I am thrilled to see the completed project today! By investing in our libraries, we can ensure they continue to provide modern, accessible programming and services that meet the needs of our communities while preserving these important institutions for generations to come.”

Reed Memorial Library Director Denise Martens said, “Assemblyman Matt Slater has consistently advocated for Putnam County libraries, and this bullet aid funding is a prime example of taxpayer dollars directly benefiting local families. By modernizing our program preparation kitchen with stainless-steel amenities and adding a freezer for the first time in our 113-year history, we solved long-standing structural challenges and unlocked brand-new possibilities for all of our patrons. We can now deliver interactive STEAM and food programs that were previously out of reach, and we extend our sincere thanks to Assemblyman Slater for championing the Reed Memorial Library—the oldest library building in Putnam County and a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.”