The newly renovated and fully functional Picton Public Library hosted a celebratory gathering to thank  its many donors and volunteers last month.

After five years of renovation and expansion, the library now stands as a monument to its community, at the centre of all kinds of activity.

Alexandra Bake, chair of the fundraising committee, noted no less than eighty volunteers ran events of all descriptions, from bake sales to galas. Such events attracted over 950 donors, including individuals as well as service clubs, churches and businesses from across the county. They helped to raise over $3.3 million over the course of the campaign.

“Together we devised a plan of attack: it was simple, and, in the spirit of the library, it was inclusive,” said Ms. Bake. “Each volunteer drew on their own passion and reach in the community to help bring the library’s story to life. All the while building a groundswell of support, which kept the campaign going even through its darkest days.”

Library CEO Barbara Sweet praised architect Brian Clark’s “stunning design that inspired a community,” and noted all the comments from stunned visitors.

The new space has made possible far more than the loaning of books. Meeting rooms, office space, a recording studio, art spaces, a community pantry, and a flex space for events are all now available in this bright and beautiful building, built by the community for the community.

Ms. Sweet thanked Ms. Bake in particular for her tireless service, her “tenacity, imagination, determination — and charm.”

Ms. Bake is stepping down from her leadership of the fundraising committee. “After today I will be hanging up my hat with a great sense of gratitude and awe at the generosity of the residents of this exceptional community.”

Ms. Bake and Ms. Sweet noted that the work is not fully complete, and fundraising continues. Each appealed for contributions to ongoing funding campaigns.

The Rotary Club of Picton Community Service Chair Ian Chan and President Don Leslie presented one of their giant cheques, $1000 to keep the expansion campaign going.

Ms. Sweet looked forward “to the day when the project is 100 per cent complete and we can host another celebration—a grand opening.”