Shrewsbury Public Library dedication culminates an 18-year journey

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By Melanie Petruccci, Contributing Writer

State and local officials, as well as members of the Shrewsbury Public Library staff and board of directors celebrate the official grand opening of the renovated building.
State and local officials, as well as members of the Shrewsbury Public Library staff and board of directors celebrate the official grand opening of the renovated building.

Shrewsbury – Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito joined other state and local officials, as well as members of the Shrewsbury Public Library staff and board of directors, to celebrate the official grand opening of the renovated facility Sept. 21.

“It’s a glorious day,” Ellen Dolan, the library’s director declared.

Matt Hogan, the co-chair of the Capital Campaign agreed, saying, “It’s a wonderful day for the community to commemorate hundreds of people who came together to overcome many obstacles in making this day possible.”

Eighteen years ago the late George Strom, Jr. and then director Bonnie O’Brien began the quest to renovate the facility. Voters finally approved a measure to expand and renovate the library in a ballot vote Nov. 5, 2013. The town will receive approximately $8 million from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for the project. The town’s portion, $13.3 million, will be funded through a debt exclusion. Supporters also raised $1.75 million through the capital campaign.

“I am very proud of all who made this gift possible to Shrewsbury,” Polito said in remarks. “The library is a safety net for children, families and aging residents who can enjoy a quality of life and the library will serve as a hallmark for decades to come.”

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