GALESBURG — The Galesburg Public Library invites the public to celebrate the start of construction of the new library by attending the groundbreaking ceremony at 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 7.
The ceremony will be held at the new building construction site on the corner of West Main and South Academy streets. Ceremony speakers include representatives from the library and the Galesburg Public Library Foundation, Mayor Peter Schwartzman and Secretary of State Jesse White.
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Following the ceremony, all are invited to a reception at the current library. The library will provide refreshments, giveaways, and activities for all ages, including a construction activity, “Building Challenge Accepted,” for children, teens, and families. Patrons and families may drop in between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. to take part in the fun. Visitors will learn more about the plans for the new building and ways to get involved in the construction project.
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The library has received $15.3 million from the Illinois State Library through the Public Library Construction Act Grant. The grant covers 75% of qualifying construction expenses, and the library is responsible for raising the remaining funds locally. Since kicking off their capital campaign last year with a goal to raise $3.75 million, the library has raised over $3 million to date.
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To learn more about the library construction, visit thegplf.org, or contact the library at (309) 343-6118. The Galesburg Public Library is currently located at 40 E. Simmons Street.