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Connecticut Residents Accelerated Their Return to Libraries in 2023, Data Shows — Connecticut by the Numbers

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Connecticut Residents Accelerated Their Return to Libraries in 2023, Data Shows — Connecticut by the Numbers


Across public libraries in Connecticut, 2023 was a banner year, with COVID increasingly in the rear-view mirror.   Newly released reports include metrics that reveal increased use of libraries for a range of purposes.   Library visits, circulation, and program attendance have all increased, with library visits having doubled since FY2021. Libraries across Connecticut were visited by over 12.2 million people in FY2023.

Alongside these upward trends, there are a number of noteworthy highlights included in two reports, “CT’s Public Libraries: A Statistical Profile, 2022-2023” and “Statistical Trends in CT Public Libraries, 2023 [PDF]”:

•              Audio downloads have jumped by 17% since last year and 80% since FY2018, showing the popularity of apps like Libby, Hoopla, and Palace Project. There has also been nearly a 50% jump in borrowing of physical audio.

•              The number of non-library community meetings held in libraries rose to 51,363 in FY2023, an increase of over 100% from FY2022, demonstrating that libraries are meeting communities’ needs for space.

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•              Introduced during the pandemic, online library card registration appears here to stay with over 75% of libraries participating. With this upgrade of ease and access, libraries have the power to increase the number of registered borrowers across the state.



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Connecticut lawmakers go head-to-head in Fifth Annual CGA Kickball Classic

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Connecticut lawmakers go head-to-head in Fifth Annual CGA Kickball Classic


HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — Lawmakers put aside politics on Monday for a good cause, going head-to-head on the field.

Democrats took on Republicans in the Fifth Annual CGA Kickball Classic at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford. All ticket sales go towards charity, with this year’s recipient being United Way of Connecticut.

The Democrats won for the second year in a row, the Republicans had a three-year win streak previously.

“It’s great, especially because we’re coming into the real heat of the legislative session, so it’s a lot of fun to be out here,” State Rep. Jason Doucette (D) said. “We have a fun time with our friends across the aisle.”

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“United Way is a great organization, a statewide organization, and all of our local United Ways,” Former House Minority Leader Themis Klarides (R) said. “Especially in this day and age, people need so much help just for their everyday activities and keeping their families going, so we’re just really proud to have them be our charity this year.”

Lawmakers on both sides encouraged Connecticut residents to support their local United Way organization however they can.



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This CT city is one of the ‘Top 100 Best Places to Live in the US,’ according to Livability

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This CT city is one of the ‘Top 100 Best Places to Live in the US,’ according to Livability


Livability released its annual list of small to mid-sized cities throughout the nation where residents can “truly thrive,” according to its website. Livability analyzed more than 100 data points in eight essential categories to measure a city’s overall health and “fun factor.”

The Fairfield County city was named to the list for being “home to a charming downtown, excellent schools, an arts community” and its proximity to New York City.

Danbury ranked high for its health, safety and amenities such as dining variety and access to parks and museums. Livability highlighted places in the city such as Danbury Museum, Railway Museum, Danbury Music Centre, Ives Concert Park, The Palace Danbury, Aldrich Museum, Danbury Ice Arena, Thrillz Park, Tarrywile Park and the Danbury Fair Mall.

Some of Livability’s top reasons to move to Danbury include the city being a “commuter’s dream,” as it is 50 miles from New York City and an hour from Hartford. The website also stated that Danbury is “affordable” compared to other Connecticut cities, with a median home value of $417,303, an average household income of $91,100 and median monthly rent of $1,679.

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Livability also described Danbury as a “regional powerhouse for retail and health care” and stated that it was “one of the most diverse cities in the country” for its culinary and cultural scenes.

Danbury previously was named to Livability’s “Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” list in 2024 and 2025.



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Person found dead in Hartford wooded area

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Person found dead in Hartford wooded area


A person was found dead on Westland Street in Hartford on Sunday, according to Hartford Police.

The person was found dead in a wooded area on Westland Street.

Police said there is no foul play suspected at this time.

The investigation is currently ongoing.

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There is no other information at this time.



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