Grand Re-Opening of the Lakefield Library * By Anita Locke

The Lakefield Library was the site of a celebration as the new upgrades and renovations to the branch were officially unveiled. Although the library had re-opened earlier in October, this particular event was an opportunity for council and community members to see firsthand some the work that had been done.

This project marks the completion of three major facility improvements across the Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield library system over the past five years or so.

The Lakefield project included roof replacement, HVAC replacement, flooring, paint, trim, blinds, related plumbing and electrical work, exterior repairs, direct accessibility expenses, new shelving and furniture, and the move.

Overall costs were about $120,000, with cost-sharing between the township ($70,000) and the Library Board ($50,000).

The Library Board contribution included a portion of the bequest that John D. Grylls had made to the library, the Lakefield Library Reserve Fund which is comprised primarily of fund-raised dollars and proceeds from Renewed Classics.

The township paid for the major building costs, while the Board paid for decorating, shelving, furniture and moving expenses.

Shelving has been laid out differently so as to allow more light to flood the space and create a more open environment.

Following the same renovation model that was used at the Ennismore Branch last year, the improvements required a temporary branch closure, which began after the Labour Day weekend.

Lane Vance, who is the Township Treasurer, as well as Treasurer for the Library Board, noted the hard work of staff and volunteers.

Lane specifically noted the bequest made by a former Lakefield Branch user, John Grylls, who passed away in 2008. He said, “More and more, the library is becoming a beneficiary of donations from community members. John left a legacy gift to the Lakefield Library of almost $209,000.”

In addition to the monetary gift, John also gifted his collection of books – primarily non-fiction and history, some of which has been incorporated into the library collection.

A portion of those funds were used to purchase some of the new comfortable seating and furniture, and the shelving.

The township still holds approximately $200,000 from John’s gift to be used in future improvements at the Lakefield branch as the population grows and as the needs of the library expand.

PHOTO: Helping to cut the ribbon at the grand re-opening of the Lakefield Library branch on October 21 were (left to right) Lakefield Librarian Jill Warren, Smith Ward Councillor Sherry Senis, Library Board Chair Rosellen Hickey, Reeve Mary Smith, Lakefield Ward Councillor Anita Locke, Ennismore Ward Councillor Donna Ballantyne and township and Board Treasurer Lane Vance. Deputy Reeve Andy Mitchell is tucked in behind. (Photo by Pat Westwood)