News Release
DATE: November 18, 2008
The New Flint Public Library Welcomes the Community
Flint Public Library in 2007 before construction began on the addition
The Flint Public Library construction project added nearly 15,000 square feet of new space and renovated the original building
It was standing room only as hundreds of residents turned out to celebrate the re-dedication and grand opening of Flint Public Library in Middleton. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a line to get into the library,” observed Library Director Adele Carter.
Commissioner Em Claire Knowles congratulated Library Director Adele Carter and her library staff, the Library Trustees,the Friends of the Library and the Middleton Community
Commissioner Em Claire Knowles, who attended the 2007 groundbreaking of the new library, was joined by Commissioners Vicki Kaufman and Mary Rose Quinn. “You kept your eyes on the prize,” Knowles said in her address to the crowd, “and through your commitment to developing a place of learning and intellect, you’re growing as a community, I congratulate you.”
The construction project renovated the original building and the addition added almost 15,000 square feet of new space. Incorporated into the project were many energy-efficient elements such as a fully insulated attic, Thermopane windows and doors, and multiple HVAC zones. Recycled or re-used elements include re-use of historic wood to build bookshelves and provide floor surfaces, a recycled slate roof on the addition, and refinishing and re-use of tables and chairs.
Senator Bruce Tarr called the library a “gift of knowledge that you have given yourselves and future generations.” Patrons shared his enthusiasm. “I’m 90 years old, said one patron. “ I’ve met my best friends at this library and I’m so glad I’m here to celebrate today.” Shirley Raynard, President of the Friends of Flint said that she has lived her life by the “four Fs: Faith, Family, Friends and Flint.” “Now we can have the programs we’ve always wanted to do,” she added. Representative Bradley H. Jones called the library “the jewel of Middleton.”
Liza Raynard, grandaughter of Friends President Shirley Raynard, enjoys a book with her dad in the new children's room
Representative Brad Hill was among several speakers who recognized the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) partnership in the project. “Four out of the six towns that I represent have new or renovated libraries thanks to the work you (MBLC) do. We wouldn’t be here today without the work of our library commissioners.” In 2004 the MBLC awarded Middleton a $2,390,053 construction grant as part of the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program.
For more information about the MBLC's Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program please visit http://mblc.state.ma.us/grants/construction/index.php