ELKINS — A new spacious public library will be a reality for area residents and library officials next year. A ground breaking ceremony on Friday heralded the beginning of renovations on the property at 352 Center St., which had housed the city’s administrators until January 2009.

School teachers, students, the Elkins High School band, city and library officials and citizens braved the sunny but chilly day as the 30 minute ceremony brought several to a microphone to laud those who had made a new library possible.

Former Elkins resident Ron Bamberg returned from his new home in Texas to host the event. “I couldn’t miss this,” said Bamberg, who had sat on the library board and helped with ideas on the purchase of the old city hall for a new library as well as fundraising projects.

Ignoring his own contributions Bamberg praised Susan Unger, head librarian.

“A special recognition goes to Susan Unger,” Bamberg said. “Under her direction the library has become a dynamic part of the community. She is a tireless worker and has helped make all of thisRon Bamberg, former Elkins resident and former Elkins Library Board member who recently moved to Texas, returned for the library groundbreaking ceremony on Friday. He introduced the speakers and praised those who had helped make a new library possible.

possible If not for her we wouldn’t be here today.”

Bamberg added, turning to the students attending the event, “This is about as important an event as Elkins has had and you [students] will probably alwaysremember this day.”

Linda Stith, president of the Elkins Library Board, said when it was recognized that the 1.000 square feet space at 162 Doolin Dr. was becoming too cramped due to increased patronage, Unger and the board wanted a new library near the schools. The new library is adjacent to the Elkins Elementary School.

“We’re happy it happened,” Stith said.

“The outcome of this will be a beautiful building -- something we can be proud of, and we thank Roger Boskus for his pro bono work.”

Boskus, an architect with Miller, Boskus and Lack Architects of Springdale, drew up the plans for the new library.

“It’s been a lot of hard work,” Mayor Jack Ladyman said. “I appreciate Susan working tireless on this and the board.

I believe this library is a big, big part of Elkins downtown moving forward.”

Unger wrapped up the ceremony.

“We’re just thrilled. We weren’t sure we were ever going to get her, but we have and we’re real excited about it.”

Ladue told those gathered for the eventthat 64 volunteers last year raised almost $60,000.

Bamberg said all donations to the library are tax deductible.

The new library will cost $459,373 and provide 4,000 square feet of space for more books, materials and computers.

Unger said the library will host after school programs, local meetings and/or other events.

She also thanked Bamberg for returning for the event and others who had made the new library posssible.

News, Pages 1 on 10/22/2009

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