CHAPPAQUA, N.Y. – President Bill Clinton made an appearance in the town he calls home on Friday for a scheduled stop at the Chappaqua Library to promote his new book, “Back to Work: Why We Need a Smart Government for a Strong Economy.”

“I had a book signing in Chappaqua for my other two books and I wanted to come here,” said Clinton. “I like the library, I support it, it’s a great library... I’m trying to do as many of these signings as possible around the country.”

Clinton’s appearance was a financial boon for the Chappaqua Library, as it received 10 percent of his book’s sales for hosting the event. Clinton, who said he frequents local libraries and book stores, believes small businesses play a major role in the state of the economy and is excited with what he has seen in Chappaqua recently.

“We have two new businesses in Chappaqua and I try to patronize both of them on a regular basis,” said Clinton, who added that while some stores have gone out of business, he was encouraged with how quickly those vacancies were filled. “I like it, I like what’s going on.”

Hundreds of residents around the tri-state area formed a line extending out of the library to have their chance at shaking Clinton’s hand, sharing a few words, and having a copy of their book signed.

“My wife saw it on the news that he was coming here and said ‘you have to take me,’” said Ian Tierney, who made the trip from Long Island.

Many of New Castle’s local politicians showed up at the library in support of the event. Town board member John Buckley even took the day off from his day job at Houlihan Lawrence to volunteer.

The signing was short notice for library, learning only 72 hours prior to the event that Clinton wanted to hold a signing in Chappaqua. The event was run through The Village Bookstore in Pleasantville.

Despite only being scheduled to appear from 3:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m., the demand to meet the former President was greater than anticipated. Clinton, however, remained at the library longer than the expected two hours, signing copies of his book until they were sold out.

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