Press release submitted by
Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library
Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library have been doing a lot more than speaking out in favor of Library improvements in recent months. They’ve been quietly raising their share to expand and renovate the Library in a joint project with the City of Fernandina Beach and Nassau County.
“We are thrilled to announce that we have raised cash gifts and pledges for our share of the construction costs,” said Bill Flynn, President, Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library (FOL).
Having achieved this milestone, FOL is launching the second phase of its campaign – to raise additional funds for furnishings, equipment and collection improvements, and to provide an endowment for future needs, he said.
“We’re incredibly thankful to our very generous early donors. Their support shows that the community understands the value of the Library and is committed to making it better,” said Flynn. “In coming months, we’ll be reaching out to the broader community to raise funds for shelving, seating, self-serve checkout equipment, desks and other items that will be needed in the new facility.”
It is hoped that construction on the new wing can begin this summer, followed by renovation of the existing building, and everything will be completed by the end of next year.
The plan calls for the existing 35 year old building to get much needed repairs and upgrades. The energy-efficient new addition will be designed to complement and reinforce the attractive, historic aspects of the downtown area. The enlarged facility will have separate, more user friendly areas for children and adult readers, plus comfortable study and meeting areas. A dedicated computer section and a separate room for historical and genealogical materials are also planned. All in all, the Library will be much more inviting and comfortable for study and learning for all ages, said Flynn.
For more detailed information on how you can help, contact the Friends of the Library, PO Box 17155, Fernandina Beach, FL 32035, call (904) 321-6529 or e-mail [email protected]. A new website that will accept gifts on line will soon be available.
April 22, 2013 1:00 a.m.