Once upon a library...

This is an exciting year for the Bridgetown and Area Friends of the Library.  Not only are they celebrating the tenth year of their highly successful Silent Auction Fundraiser, they are now investing in an expansion of the Bridgetown and Area Library facility.

Grand opening of Bridgetown Library

The Friends of the Library was formed in 2002, its first mission being the relocation of the Library from the basement of Town Hall to its present location in the Revere Building on Queen Street.  The town granted permission for the library to occupy more than half of the Queen Street building and, thanks to many generous donations from local residents and businesses, and a wonderful bequest from Joyce Devenney, the overhaul of the derelict building began.  Bridgetown’s beautiful new library opened its doors in 2011.  It has been a vibrant and crucial community hub ever since. 

Volunteers put finishing touches on auction items

In the spring of 2015, with the commercial part of the Revere Building becoming available, the Friends conceived the idea of expanding the library into the vacant space.  Wholeheartedly endorsed by the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, the idea was approved verbally by Annapolis County in late fall 2015, and the plans were approved formally in July 2016.  All that remains is for the renovations to begin.

Plans are to open up the space to make a meeting room, and to move the children's area into the current meeting room. Any structural work requires money and, while proceeds from years of Silent Auctions will provide the funds for the initial renovations, the Friends of the Library also have a mandate to provide ongoing financial support for enhanced library programs, as well as various community causes.  To that end they need your support.

The Friends hope to make this year’s 10th anniversary Silent Auction, taking place as part of the Bridgetown Ciderfest festivities, a stellar occasion.  You can help make that happen: donate items to the Silent Auction.  From now until September 8, drop off quality new or nearly new items,  handcrafted items & art, gift certificates, and services to the Firefly Makery, 29 Queen Street, Bridgetown, Tues-Sat. 10 am to 4 pm.

Attend and Bid at the Silent Auction:  Bidding takes place Friday, September 9, from 2 pm to 8 pm and Saturday, September 10, from 10 am to 4 pm. Auction items will be posted on our Facebook page.

A financial donation can be made and will be gratefully received, at any time.  Donate ONLINE, or cheques can be made to Annapolis Valley Regional Library. You can print this form and mail it to:  Bridgetown and Area Library, 38 Queen St., PO Box 39, Bridgetown  NS  B0S 1C0.  A tax receipt will be issued for donations over $10.  For further information, contact Connie Jodrey at the Library or by calling 902-665-2758.  See you at the Auction!

This is a guest post from the Bridgetown and Area Friends of the Library.