American Dreams do Come True.....at the Library

Twenty-one local residents from seven countries proudly became United States citizens this year after completing the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library’s citizenship preparation program, continuing a tradition that has helped hundreds achieve the American dream.

The library’s Literacy Department celebrated the milestone during its 15th annual Celebration of Literacy on June 13 at the new Main Library, recognizing the newest citizens and the volunteers, instructors and elected officials who supported their journey.

Since launching the citizenship preparation program in 2009, the library has helped 251 community members successfully obtain U.S. citizenship. Library officials noted the achievement is especially meaningful as the nation marks its 250th anniversary in 2026.

This year’s class reflected the diversity of the local community, with the 21 new citizens representing seven different countries. Overall, participants in the library’s literacy program come from 38 countries and speak 13 languages.

Several elected officials and community leaders attended the celebration to welcome the new Americans and present Certificates of Achievement. Those participating included a representative for Gov. Kathy Hochul, State Sen. Dean Murray, Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Daniel Panico and Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig.

The ceremony also featured the William Floyd High School NJROTC Color Guard presenting the colors, while Christopher Miranda performed the National Anthem. Library officials thanked the Literacy Department staff, instructors, enrichment aides, Reading Buddies, administrators and volunteers whose efforts helped make the annual program a success.

The event also recognized the recipients of this year’s citizenship scholarships, funded through the Community Family Literacy Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization that helps cover the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen. This year’s scholarship winners are originally from Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Pakistan and are expected to begin the naturalization process soon.

Officials said donations are now being accepted to fund future scholarships. The current U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services naturalization application fee is $710, and organizers said contributions of any size can help more local residents achieve citizenship in the years ahead.