James Sánchez

Being a huge supporter of the Hartford Public Library as a councilman and now as a State Representatives of the 6th District, I am proud to have been a part of the big celebration for the grand re-opening of Ropkins Library at SAND School. We cut the ribbon at the renovated facility on 1750 Main Street in the Clay Arsenal neighborhood in Hartford. The family-friendly space is now the home of the first Hartford History Center Annex in the library branch system.

We recognized Mark Billington III and his family for graciously donating artistic photography showcasing the mid 20th century streetscapes of North Hartford. Mark is the son of former State Representative Clyde Billington Jr., who served Hartford's 7th District for 10 years. He passed away in 2018.

Rep. Billington was the founder of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus. He would be proud of the Ropkins Library reopening and its Hartford History Center, which now contains his photography. An amazing tribute! All of this progress aligns with our mission to promote growth and educational opportunities in minority communities.

Mark Billington III and I celebrate reopening of Ropkins Library.

Ropkins Library had been closed since March 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, crews renovated the facility, which was in dire need of repairs. The upgraded library branch is bright, colorful, and welcoming to all guests! It now contains a print collection of the Hartford Courant, the Hartford Times, and the aforementioned donation from the Billington family.

Since Ropkins Library is connected to SAND School, many students and teachers are already using the space. An amazing staff is greeting visitors and helping them with a variety of requests including research projects. I invite you to visit the renovated Ropkins Library, its new Hartford History Center Annex, and improved amenities. This is truly a jewel in the city of Hartford.