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Lawrence Pulbic Library Gets Needed Makeover

The Lawrence Public Library was the latest capital improvement project to be completed last week. 

This project was especially important to me because, by virtue of my office, I have had the pleasure of serving as the chairman of the Lawrence Public Library Board of Trustees. 

This group of extremely dedicated professionals realizes the important roles that libraries play in any community. As we strive to make our city attractive to new homeowners and businesses alike, we must show them that we value our institutions of learning.

Two years ago, my administration spearheaded a renovation at the South Lawrence Branch Library and even brought the building into ADA compliance. 

A new children’s room, complete with the latest computers thanks to a Bill Gates Corporation grant, and an Irish Studies room were certainly highlights of that project.

The main branch has a makeover that totaled a half million dollars and included many features. Most of the funding was expended on high quality carpeting of all of the rooms and common areas. 

The children’s reading room was done in multicolored carpet and was the first replacement in 30 years. The auditorium was also fixed up to host many meetings and community activities with all new chairs being added.

The newest edition has taken place on the third floor where there are new rooms dedicated to specific uses.

The new Lawrence history room will allow many residents, past and present, to trace their roots, work on genealogy or just get a sense of the many immigrants who came to Lawrence for a new life.

The next room is the new home of the Robert Frost collection. With the view of his alma mater, residents can read some of the beautiful poems and life story of one of Lawrence High School’s most notable valedictorians.

The rooms can also be a visit or attraction where people can obtain a map of the new Robert Frost Trail that was created over the last several years.

There is a beautiful sitting area with reconditioned chairs and bookcases, courtesy of yet another library donation from the White Fund. Readers and researchers can look out over historic Campagnone Common as they peer through an ornamental sculpture, which adorned the windows of the original library. 

This third floor is home to the new city of Lawrence IT (information technology) network. It allows for a comfortable, workable, secure space for staff and the new multi-million dollar upgrade of equipment.

All in all, this is another tremendous capital project that is so much more than just carpeting. 

Maureen Nimmo, Director of Library Services, and the entire staff are to be commended for a job well done. So I encourage all residents to stop by the library for a tour and take advantage of our new and improved Lawrence Public Library.       

 You can email Mayor Sullivan at N_Carroll@cityoflawrence.com

 

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The June, 2006 Edition of the Valley Patriot
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All Contents (C) 2006, Valley Patriot, Inc.
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