The Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIACT) recognizes buildings for their architectural design in the Connecticut Treasures competition. This year, the Chester Public Library has been nominated and it is up to the public to vote by Friday, July 27.

Each year the AIACT focuses on the architecture of different types buildings for this competition from eight Connecticut counties each year. In 2018, that focus is on library buildings, both public and private, across the state.

“I’m honored that our library building was chosen to represent Middlesex County for this prestigious award,” said Chester Library Director Stephanie Romano.

The goal of this competition is to urge Connecticut residents to discover and learn about Connecticut’s architectural gems as well as support their own region’s nomination, according to the AIACT website aiact.org.

While the Chester Library Association dates back to 1875, the current building wasn’t built until 1907 after the Ecclesiastical Society of the Congregational Church deeded land to the town. The full history of the Chester Public Library can be found at chesterct.org.

“There are so many beautiful library buildings in the area that it’s nice to be recognized,” said Romano. “I hope others feel the same by casting their vote.”

To vote for the Chester Public Library, visit aiact.org by July 27.

2018 Connecticut Treasures Nominees

New Haven County: Beinecke Library, Yale University, New Haven

Fairfield County: Pequot Library, Fairfield

Hartford County: Kent Memorial Library, Suffield

Litchfield County: Hotchkiss Memorial Library, Sharon

New London County: Public Library of New London, New London

Tolland County: George Maxwell Memorial Library, Rockville (Vernon)

Windham County: North Woodstock Public Library, North Woodstock

Middlesex County: Chester Public Library, Chester