Boost for books

Friends of the Thunder Bay Public Library believe in books.

It’s why on Monday they contributed $50,000 to a fundraising campaign aimed at jump-starting the still-under-construction Mary J. L. Black Library replacement, expected to open next spring.

The money will be used to pay for furnishings, equipment and upgrade the library’s aging collection, including books, CDs and movies.

Sierra Trees-Turner, an avid reader and president of the executive board of FOTBPL, said the Brock Street facility – being relocated to Edward Street – is part of the fabric of the Westfort Community.

"There are a lot of families in Westfort. They bring their children here and there are all kinds of children’s activities. A lot of people like to read, but they can’t necessarily afford a $25 book, so they support the library. It’s an institution in this neighbourhood," Trees-Turner said, explaining why a group of volunteers banded together to make such a sizeable donation.

Patrick Morash, who will chair a newly formed volunteer committee to co-ordinate the Your Neighbourhood Link to the World campaign, called it a great start.

"With this incredible donation, our fundraising committee is well on its way to achieiving our $250,000 fundraising goal," Morash said. "This donation is a true testament to what can be achieved when individuals are passionate and committed to a cause in their community."

The campaign is part of an ongoing effort to renew the city’s four public libraries, said TBPL chief librarian Gina La Force. It follows up on a commitment she made to the city when the new $5-million facility was approved. The majority of the costs have been provided through federal and provincial stimulus spending.

"We felt so strongly about the need for a new library," she said.

La Force is confident the community will step up and donate to the campaign, which she expects to wrap up in time for the scheduled March 31, 2011 completion date.

It’s already begun, over-and-above the lead donation announced Monday.

"The Westfort Business Association has come forward with a donation, and we’ve had some personal donations already. We think it’s definitely achievable," La Force said.

Donations can be made via mail, telephone, online or in person at the Mary J.L. Black Library.