February 19, 2026
.com
Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 8
State Budget Cuts Could Hit Local Libraries By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer
Libraries in Chester, Deep River, and Essex could feel the effects of a proposed 20% cut to statewide library services under Gov. Ned Lamont’s fiscal year 2027 budget—part of a reduction that has the Connecticut
Library Association deeply concerned. The Connecticut Library Association (CLA) earlier this month released a briefing outlining how public libraries across the state would be affected by the proposed reduction in support for statewide library services. Among the programs most at risk is “borrowIT CT,” formerly known as Connecti-
card. The program allows library cardholders to borrow materials from public libraries outside their home towns. When a library lends an item to a patron from another community, the state reimburses that library for the transaction. See State Budget Cuts page 10
Tara Helen O’Connor is helping lead the Essex Winter Series into a new season..................................2
Tractors Take Chester
Facing Adversity The Warriors boys basketball team Henry Fischer of Vista Life Inno- is searching for its new identity vations sits atop a tractor during the annual Chester Tractor Parade ahead of the postseason..............12 on Feb. 15. The winter celebration features live music and a chili sale benefiting the Chester Hose Company, while local businesses offer food and drink specials throughout Chester.
Photo by Laura Matesky/ Valley Courier
New for the New Year Madison Lyric Stage has announced its 2026 lineup............................19
KEEP CALM
AND
EAT
CHILI POTSTICKERS CHILI
Just up the Road
Red House, Deep River