Barney Library Reopens After Renovation

Dozens of Farmington residents were already exploring the renovated by 6 p.m. Tuesday, the official start of its grand opening celebration.

"Thrilled" was the word heard over and over as visitors got a first look at the many improvements, from the elevator, which makes the second-floor gallery accessible to all, to the bright children's area equipped with four Apple computers on a kid-sized table. "Wow" was a common reaction to the teen loft and the adult reading and study area.

"The library has been beautifully and lovingly restored. It is obvious the committee took great care and paid attention to every detail," said Jane Dalal, board chairman of the .

Farmington Town Manager Kathy Eagen praised all the town employees and volunteers who worked on the "fabulous team effort. I couldn't be more proud."

Applause erupted from the crowd of more than 200 as George Reider, president of the Farmington Village Green and Library Association, asked "What do you think?" He acknowledged all who had worked to save the library and bring it to its renewed state. "As I looked at the sun shining on the fireplace downstairs in the reading room this afternoon, I thought, you could go anywhere in this country and not find a finer room."

Dave Palmer, head of the Building Committee, said the project involved the efforts of more than 50 people. Asked what the greatest challenge had been, he explained "We had not planned on taking down the center of the building, but we did plan for the unexpected in working on a 90-year-old building."

"This very fine restoration is a tribute to the original architect and the current architect. I look forward to attending many programs here," said library association board member Alan Coykendall.

Local artist Dawn Lombardi echoed the enthusiasm.

"My children have missed coming to the activities here," Lombardi said. "This is such a great place. My family will walk over every day." She has had six shows in the Hoppin Gallery and looks forward to more in the future. "This is my favorite place to show my work."

"I got my first library card here and my first job," recalled Kathy Wadsworth. "We would come over from Noah Wallace after school. The stacks were everyone's favorite room, but children weren't allowed there then. Coming in tonight I was really happy about all the effort that was put in to saving the library. It would have been a real hole in town if they didn't."

The grand opening was just the first event to welcome patrons and celebrate the reopening. The library will hold a welcome back coffee Thursday, Dec. 2, at 10 a.m.

The Friends of the Farmington Library will present a holiday "Gingerbread House Festival" Friday, Dec. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will feature 50 handmade  gingerbread houses and entries will be sold through a silent auction. All money raised will be used to support the Farmington Library programs. There will be awards for the most outstanding entries for Adult Professional, Amateur and Children. The event includes food, beverages, silent auction and music by the Farmington High School Oriana Singers. Tickets may be purchased at the main library for $25 or that evening at the door.