Centennial Proclamation

Town of Bethel, Connecticut

WHEREAS, the Bethel Public Library is celebrating the beginning of its centennial year on this day of Sunday, February 22nd, 2009; and,
WHEREAS, the Bethel Public Library has long been a landmark on the corner of Library Place and Greenwood Avenue where it is part of the Historic District of the Town of Bethel; and,
WHEREAS, the Bethel Public Library began in 1909 with a generous donation from Maria Parloa, a prominent Bethel citizen, and from the Seelye family who, in 1914, donated their homestead on Greenwood Avenue to become the home of the library. Over the years, other generous benefactors have contributed to the growth and development of the Bethel Public Library to make it what it is today; and,
WHEREAS, over the years, the Bethel Public Library has grown both in building size and in services to accommodate the ever-changing needs and tastes of the population being served; and,
WHEREAS, the Bethel Public Library has adapted to the changes in technology that have redefined what is known as a library while maintaining the comfort and respect associated with a collection of books and the information and inspiration they contain.
THEREFORE, I, Robert E. Burke, First Selectman of the Town of Bethel, Connecticut, in appreciation and respect of all the wonderful work done by the board members, staff and volunteers of the Bethel Public Library, do hereby recognize the beginning of the Library’s Centennial Celebration and proclaim heartiest congratulations and thanks from the entire Town of Bethel, Connecticut.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 22nd day of February in the year of our Lord the 2009th, in the independence of the United States the 233rd, in the foundation of the Town of Bethel, Connecticut the 154th.

      Robert E. Burke, First Selectman       Town of Bethel, Connecticut