Library Official Opening

Library patrons and supporters gathered with staff, board members and dignitaries yesterday to mark the official opening of the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre.

Library Board Chair Joyce Cunningham says the opening was more than just for a traditional library.

"The dream has never been just about bricks and mortar," say Cunningham. "Today is not a mere celebration about a building or the technology within it. It's about having community access to possibilities that we have only just started to explore."

Fundraising chair Mark Kowalchuk says the day was both an end and beginning to era's in the library's history.

"We mark on one hand the end of a project that took fifteen years to complete from start to finish," says Kowalchuk. "On the other hand, we mark the beginning for a new facility that will open the doors to the world for everyone through books, technology and rich ongoing menu of program offerings."

Several dignitaries were on hand, including Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton who said the new facility was a huge step forward for the area.

"Education and technology and learning has always been important," says Hampton. "But in the world we live in now it is more important than ever. Fort Frances should be proud that it has taken a leadership and is well positioned for that 21st century economy."

No provincial cabinet ministers were on hand, but plaques presented on their behalf were presented to the Library for display.

The $4.7 million project was paid for through government grants and public and private donations.