SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, Congressman Seth Magaziner and members of the South Kingstown community gathered Tuesday to celebrate $700,000 in funding for planned renovations at the historic Peace Dale Library.

Officials said the federal earmark secured by Reed and Magaziner will be used to create a "new, fully accessible community space with free and reliable high-speed internet access, flex meeting spaces, independent workstations, and dedicated teaching spaces," as well as upgrade the library's HVAC, lighting and sprinkler systems.

"Public libraries are about so much more than books," Reed said in a press release. "They are places where Rhode Islanders can unlock opportunities, discover new passions, and create new connections."

"The Peace Dale Library is an invaluable resource that provides Rhode Islanders with a safe and welcoming place to read, work and learn," Magaziner added.

The library also received $2.5 million in ARPA funding earlier this year, which in addition to renovations will also support educational and workforce training programs.

"Library programming focused on workforce growth, health monitoring and educational support will have a tremendous impact on our residents and our community," Town Manager James Manni said. "Thanks to this federal funding, we'll be able to enhance the space dedicated within the Peace Dale Library for our Community Learning Center program, while also expanding our offerings."

The town said its gathering feedback from the public to ensure the upgrades to the library best fit the community's needs.