Good afternoon, everyone.
As we gather here today, it is especially fitting that we celebrate the reopening of our beloved Youth Library during National Library Week.
This annual event highlights libraries' invaluable role in our communities – and what better time to recognise the importance of our Youth Library than now?
It is a pleasure to stand before you as we mark this exciting milestone. Today’s reopening is the result of months of planning, hard work, and collaboration. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this project, from the property owner, Gibbons Management Services Limited, and dedicated contractors to our incredible library team: Mrs. Marla Smith, Mr. Kieron Hall, Ms. Kristina Bean, and Ms. Lorie Fox. You have worked tirelessly throughout this journey, and your commitment and effort have brought us to this proud moment.
The Youth Library has long served as a cornerstone of our community, providing a safe, inclusive space where young people can explore, learn, and grow. As old as I am, as a young boy under 10 years old, I can remember spending hours on a Saturday afternoon here reading books like the Hardy Boys mystery novels or the detective adventures of Encyclopedia Brown.
Today, we unveil a refreshed and revitalised library—one that not only honours its history but is now better able to serve future generations.
Like any major project, this renovation came with its share of challenges, including unexpected roof repairs and weather-related delays. But thanks to the vision and responsiveness of our dedicated landlord, these challenges were transformed into opportunities. The result is a brighter, safer, and more welcoming environment for all.
The upgrades include new ceiling and carpet tiles, fresh flooring, energy-efficient LED lighting, and a beautifully repainted interior and exterior. We’ve also replaced the original 40-year-old shelving with modern, safer units. And while the new ground-level bathrooms will be completed shortly after reopening, they’ll soon eliminate the need for our young visitors to leave the building just to use the facilities.
As for programming, we’re already off to an exciting start. The "Golden Ticket" challenge launched yesterday and will run until June 13th. Lucky readers who find hidden tickets in books will be entered into a prize draw at the end of the challenge. All previous programmes will resume the week of April 14th, and the Youth Library team is also preparing to roll out new initiatives that will strengthen literacy skills and spark a lifelong love of reading.
On a personal note, to my surprise, my photo memories of the day feature on my phone, brought up a picture of my daughter and me, at this very library 10 years ago today. I am also proud to share that her love of reading has resulted in her becoming a member of TAB, the Youth Library's Teen Advisory Board. As a family, we are passionate supporters of the library’s mission and I encourage all high school students seeking community service hours to consider joining TAB. It’s a meaningful way to give back to the community, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact.
In closing, I want to express my gratitude again to everyone who contributed to this transformation. Your dedication and hard work have helped create a Youth Library where imagination, learning, inspiration, and community can thrive for generations to come.
I welcome everyone back to the Youth Library. Thank you!