Updated: Calling all Friends of Los Gatos Library

What do black holes and Bentleys have in common? The new Los Gatos Library.

You may have heard construction is under way for the new $12 million Los Gatos Library, and doors are expected to open in February 2012. Members of the Friends of Los Gatos Public Library have their sights set on making the 30,000 square-foot library as comfortable as possible.

“With the recent closing of Borders, it’s more important than ever to make the library a place of destination,” said Anne-Marie White, a volunteer on the Community Gifts Campaign (CGC). “The new library will have a coffee cart and a beautiful children’s garden. It’s going to be a place where the high school kids will feel welcome.”

After reaching 60 percent of an initial $2.1 million goal through donations made by foundations and private donors, the Friends have turned their efforts toward a public fundraising campaign. 

Hoping to raise $250,000, which will be used to buy library furniture and fixtures, the campaign launches—literally—with an afternoon of family fun and music on Sunday April 3. Former NASA astronaut Edward T. Lu will be the keynote speaker. Lu is expected to speak about his missions in space, his stay at the International Space Station and the work his foundation is doing studying how to alter the orbit of an asteroid.

“Becoming an astronaut is such a unique achievement. It takes someone with so many gifts and talents and hard work,” said event co-chairwoman Kristina Strand. “What are the odds of any of us meeting an astronaut? We, as a community, are doing something so special [building the new library] and, in turn, we are honored by the presence of someone very special.”

The free event takes place on the Civic Center front lawn at 110 E. Main St. from 1-3 p.m. Kids can look forward to a NASA bounce house, Lego building, stomp rockets and face painting. Attendees are encouraged to walk or bike to the event.

A second fundraiser will be Wednesday, 5:30-9 p.m., at . In addition to catering by , music will be provided by local favorite band, The Blues Rockers.

You don’t have to stand there drooling in the presence of these beautiful cars—you can actually bid on the chance to own one of your very own. At least for a couple of days.

Among the live auction items is the use of a Lamborgini or Bentley to use during a weekend at Carmel Valley Ranch. Also up for grabs? A $500 gift certificate to , $1,000 gift basket of Jan Marini skin care products and—priceless!—VIP seating for the entire 2011 season of Jazz in the Plazz. To buy tickets, which are $5o per person, visit friendsoflglibrarycgc.com.

Clarifications: This story has been updated to reflect the new April 3 date for the Friends of Los Gatos Public Library public capital fundraising campaign. The event was originally planned for Sunday March 20, but was cancelled due to inclement weather.