Governor McKee, Peace Dale Library Celebrate Construction Kickoff for Community Learning Center Renovation
Published on Friday, September 26, 2025
WAKEFIELD, RI – Today, Governor Dan McKee joined South Kingstown Town Manager James Manni, Library Director Laurel Clark, and Library Trustee President Timothy Murphy for the Construction Kickoff Ceremony of the Community Learning Center at the Peace Dale Library. The event marked the start of renovations that will transform the library’s historic balcony into programming space for Learn365RI out-of-school academics, adult education and job development offerings, and health monitoring initiatives.
Community Learning Centers are a signature initiative of the McKee Administration, with the Governor directing approximately $82 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus Capital Projects Funds to build or rehabilitate more than 20 centers across Rhode Island. South Kingstown received $2.9 million in Capital Projects Funding.
“I believe in the power of community to make positive change,” said Governor McKee. “With 20 community learning centers across Rhode Island, each tailored to its residents’ particular needs, we are building a culture of learning and connection.”
Town Manager James Manni said, “The Town of South Kingstown is very appreciative of the Governor’s support for this project. The Community Learning Center will be a great asset for our community, with programs and workshops for all ages.”
The center will provide flexible learning and meeting areas, including small reservable rooms, open workspaces with power and Wi-Fi, and a multipurpose classroom for workshops, tutoring, and community programs. The renovation also includes a new stairwell, a community paramedic office, and, on the opposite balcony, additional seating, another reservable meeting room, and a new office space.
“This project represents an exciting new chapter for the Peace Dale Library,” said Laurel Clark, Library Director. “We’re creating a space that responds directly to community needs – a place where people can study, learn, connect, and access the tools they need to thrive.”
This project is also supported in part by federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Fiscal Year 2024 Economic Development Initiative Community Project Funding, awarded through the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2024, with the support of our Congressional Delegation.
The South Kingstown Public Library serves residents across three branches: Peace Dale, Kingston Free, and Robert Beverly Hale – providing access to books, digital resources, programs, and spaces for lifelong learning. With a mission to support literacy, education, workforce readiness, and community engagement, the Library is dedicated to enriching the lives of all who call South Kingstown home.