Hamlin residents are hooked on reading

Residents looking for a Hamlin hot spot might want to check out the library. Or chances are they already have. Traffic was up 73 percent in 2002 over the previous year. Circulation in September 2003 was recorded at 4,300 pieces loaned out. That is a 21 percent increase from just a year ago.

"More people are finding out that we are here each day," said Library Director Hilda Landesberg. "They are usually shocked the first time they come in."

The library opened at 442 Hamlin Clarkson Townline Road in 2000 and has really grown by leaps and bounds since its inception. The library is scheduled to more than double in size by winter or spring of 2004. Nancy Martin, Library Board president, said the town recently secured a three-year lease of the facility formerly occupied by Dr. Robert Lang's dental practice. That will add more than 1,800 square feet. Martin said she believes the library will exist in its current location for another five to eight years, but it hopeful that the library will become part of another large town facility.

Martin said the expansion is planned to meet the needs of the community. "Residents' response to our library has been overwhelming," said Martin. "We're trying to provide more appropriate space for Hamlin."

Martin said the Library Board is also focused on keeping the library uniquely Hamlin, and will soon add a section for Hamlin authors and to display old town maps.

Martin added that she is excited by the potential for increased programming once the new facility is ready. She credits Landesberg with bringing some unique youth programming.

Landesberg took over in January and has enjoyed her new position. "I love it here," Landesberg, who has worked as a librarian for the Rochester public library system, for Gates and for Monroe Community College, said. "You couldn't ask for friendlier patrons or a better staff."

Landesberg said she is anxious for the additional space.

The library is open Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.