NORWALK, CT, April 6, 2006: The Norwalk Woman’s Club has contributed a check in the amount of $10,000 to the 21^st Century Fund Committee of the Norwalk Public Library Board of Directors. The 21^st Century Committee’s goal of $250,000 is needed to provide the latest in computer technology equipment and related furnishings for the South Norwalk Branch Library expansion and renovation.

The Norwalk Woman’s Club’s mission encompasses being an innovative leader in education, growth, and development of women to benefit their children, their community and their government. In offering the contribution, Marlene DePanfilis, Philanthropy Committee Chair, noted that: "Providing this support to the Norwalk Public Library system is in keeping with our goal to be of service to others. This is to improve our social, cultural and physical environment and promote appreciation of the arts. We strive to become responsible leaders in our communities."

"Founded in 1885, the Norwalk woman’s Club, affiliated with General Federation of Woman’s Clubs, has a membership of more than 59 women," explained Betty Bardes, NWC president. "Over the years, we have contributed to various Norwalk area programs and projects – including earlier contributions to the Norwalk Public Library,"

Stan Siegel, chair of the 21^st Century Fund, applauded the Norwalk woman’s Club contribution: "We are delighted that NWC has chosen to support the community in this way. The organization’s gift adds significantly to our efforts to raise the necessary funds to equip and furnish the Library as we enter the final phase of its expansion and renovation." He added, "It will be an incentive to others to help us reach our goal."

The South Norwalk Branch Library, at 10 Washington Street, closed since July, 2004, is undergoing extensive transformation which is expected to be completed by the end of this month. The modernization and expansion of the Carnegie-style building includes compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, updating the electrical system, adding nearly 3,700 square foot east and west wings, thereby creating more usable space for its patrons and the rest of the community. The Library is one of the more than 2,000 that Andrew Carnegie funded in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. The original portion of the Library will be preserved and will be enhanced by the innovative design.

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PHOTO CAPTION: (center and right) Marilyn DePanfilis, Philanthropy Committee Chair and Betty Bardes President of the Norwalk Woman’s Club present a contribution of $10,000 to the Sounth Norwalk branch Library 21^st Century Fund. Representing the Norwalk Public Library are (left) Mohan Tracy, President of the Library Board of Directors, (left, second row) Les Kozerowitz, Norwalk Public Library Director, and (right, second row) Secretary of the Norwalk public library board of Directors and Chair of the SNBL 21^st Century Fund Committee.