Village of Kenmore – New York State Assemblyman Bill Conrad today, Oct. 10, 2025, announced $22,500 in Empire State Development funding he secured recently for a newly completed public art project at the Kenmore Branch Library. The dedication of the project included the reveal of a new plaque marking its completion.

The exterior mural, painted by Cortland-based artist Molly Reagan, is visible from both Delaware and Chapel roads. Reagan’s design was chosen by a committee that included members from the Kenmore Library Board and Town Board, and with professional guidance from Arts Services Inc. (ASI), the Western New York-based nonprofit that administered the grant.

Conrad and ASI’s March 2025 call for artists garnered nearly two dozen proposals. Artists were asked to present concepts that celebrated “books, storytelling, and knowledge” and would “transform the library into a vibrant, artistic landmark that inspires the community and enhances public engagement.”

The previously nondescript façade of the Kenmore Branch Library, built in 1976, is now awash in color, with a mural that uses the building’s upper-level structural panels to depict book covers and pages.

The Village of Kenmore Planning Board reviewed and approved the design in July, and work on the project began in August. The Town of Tonawanda prepped and primed the site and provided a cherry- picker lift so Reagan could reach the building.

This marks the third ASI-administered public art project to be supported with grant funding secured by Conrad. The others are at the Town of Tonawanda Aquatic & Fitness Center, with Cassandra Ott’s mural adorning the exterior and Matt Duquette’s on the inside.

Assemblyman Bill Conrad said, “I grew up visiting the Kenmore Library, and I bring my own kids there now. It’s such a beloved center of community in the Village, and I was thrilled by the idea that we – my office, the library team, ASI, and my Village and Town colleagues – could all work together to make the outside more indicative of the magic that happens inside all our libraries. Public art projects solidify identity and grow neighborhood pride, and I thank ASI for helping New York State share this value across my Assembly District. I also want to congratulate and thank Molly Reagan for understanding our vision, lending her signature talents to this process, and delivering such a cheerful and welcoming work of art. This was the perfect proposal for the perfect place!”

Village of Kenmore Mayor Patrick Mang said, “The Kenmore Library is an important part of our walkable community. Located across from the Kenmore Junior/Senior High School, it provides a great place for our students to read, research, and study. It’s also a great destination for Kenmore residents of all ages. The Kenmore Planning Board was happy to work with the Library Committee to bring new life to the library’s façade, and we hope the vibrancy of the mural will invite even more people to experience all the fantastic resources available at the Kenmore Library!”

Arts Services Inc. Executive Director Jen Swan-Kilpatrick said, “We’re thrilled to once again partner with Assemblymember Conrad’s office on this exciting public art project. The arts are a $382 million industry in Western New York, strengthening communities and shaping our sense of place in countless ways. We’re especially proud of the inclusive public process that connected us with artists to help beautify and enliven the community. From 22 strong proposals, Molly Reagan was selected for her thoughtful reflection of the library and its surrounding neighborhood. Projects like this demonstrate that the arts truly are for everyone.”

Kenmore Branch Library Director Mary Muscarella said, “This mural stands as a vibrant celebration of literacy, community, and connection. The Library Board and staff would like to thank artist Molly Reagan for bringing our vision to life, Assemblyman Conrad for securing the funding and providing support through the process, ASI and their team for their valuable insights, the Town of Tonawanda for their continued partnership and support, and the Village of Kenmore. We dedicate this beautiful mural to all who seek knowledge, imagination, and connection within these library walls.”

Muralist Molly Reagan said, “It has been an honor and a joy to paint in Kenmore. As the artist charged with this awesome responsibility, I want to express my deep gratitude for the team that lifted this project up and afforded me the opportunity to work in Buffalo. Not only was the team a dream to collaborate with, but the neighbors of the library added so much enjoyment to the project. Every day included lots of exuberant shouts of encouragement from passersby young and old. Diving into the history of the area and finding ways to depict the missions of the library, intertwined with the rich history of Kenmore and Tonawanda, was very fulfilling. This project was full of energy, joy, and optimism at each stage. Thank you for allowing this good neighbor to leave her mark in the City of Good Neighbors!”