2018 Library Ribbon-Cutting

Fowlerville District Library

Ribbon Cutting, June 7, 2018

Hello all – my name is Marion Cornett, President of the Board of Trustees for the Fowlerville District Library.  As you are all aware, the Fowlerville District Library is entering a new chapter – pun intended!

Thirty-plus years of fiscal responsibility has made both the current staff—Cindy, Marty, Tally, Jackie, Jen M and Jen K, Kate, and Audrey, Sue, Shelley—and this board—myself, Norma Moore, David Campbell, Terri Ridenour, Sue Spalding, Jim Gioia, and Mike Newstead—the lucky recipients of being part of this momentous event.

But, before we get to the business at hand, let’s look back at how this all began.  In March, 1904, a group of woman formed the Ladies Library, under the auspices of the village of Fowlerville Council.  G.L. Adams, publisher and editor of The Fowlerville Review, made the announcement in his local newspaper, March, 1904.

A location had not been found by the following week when the officers were announced.  But eventually, the northeast corner of the fire department, now Handy Township offices at the corner of Power Street and North Grand River, became home to the Ladies Library.

It took 66 years, but with increasing inventory and service to the community, the Ladies Library finally outgrew their cozy corner in the three-story building and a new location was chosen.  After the grist mill at the corner of Mill Street and North Grand Avenue was burned down (intentionally by the fire department), the village constructed an approximately 2,000 square foot building for specifically for library use.

With additions in 1986 and 2009, the original building was doubled in size, making it 4,425 square feet. 

By 2012, the Board began looking for ways to expand.  Originally, a third addition was planned but eventually scrapped, being considered nothing much more than a “band-aid” to the over-crowded conditions. 

So, that brings us to today and this special celebration.  But, we are celebrating more than a new, larger building.  We have two major events; well, really three events:

First off, this newly-renovated 17,000 square foot building.  I’d like to thank Ron Cieslak, our architect; John DeMattia, construction manager; and, Scott Naumoff, site manager.  I can’t say enough wonderful accolades for these three gentlemen and crews.  Thank you.

Secondly, we are pleased to recognize Beth Lowe, who will be taking over director duties as of July 1^st.  Thank you, Beth.

Which brings me to our third event.

Special best wishes to both Cheryl Poch and Karin Pomeroy.  After 30-some years of polishing this spectacular gem in our community, they are both retiring as of the end of this month and receiving a very deserved rest.  (Note:  Karin retired one week earlier.)

And now, Cheryl and Beth, if you would please hold these scissors, let’s cut this red ribbon, christen this new location, and all get back to work!

Congratulations to all and a huge thank you for all involved, including our taxpayers!