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The events will begin with the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m.
The renovated space filled with the latest information technology and devices officially will be opened to the public following a yearlong project that completely re-created the library. With enhanced exhibition and programming space, updated infrastructure and improved technology, the library is better equipped to provide services.
The celebration includes an art show, Japanese dancers, llamas, storytelling, a children’s maze, balloon animals, calligraphy demonstrations, a local author’s reception and book-signing, a family scavenger hunt, puppet show, craft exhibits and performances by local bands.
“The library has been totally rebuilt from the inside out and we are excited to show you what it now has to offer,” said Galina Chernykh, library director.
“We have a new technology center, a spacious interactive children’s room and a center especially designed for teenagers with expanded group and private study space with improved lighting and an enhanced wireless network,” added Library Board President Dave Donelson.
A new television broadcast facility has been provided through an agreement with Cablevision. Almost all of the furniture and equipment in the new Harrison Library is the latest available. Seating is designed to be attractive, yet comfortable and all the toys and games are new and appealing.
There are more than 30 new computer stations throughout the building. The library’s extensive Japanese-language book collection is now housed in an attractive new space. It is now the largest collection of both juvenile and adult Japanese-language books in Westchester County.
The library’s $3.6 million renovation was made possible through a roughly 50/50 public-private partnership between the town of Harrison, the Harrison Public Library and its foundation and the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Fund, which contributed $1.3 million.
Other major contributors included the Javitch Foundation, honoring the late Harrison resident Lee Javitch, Jarden Corp. and Morgan Stanley. Over 500 private donors contributed to the project.
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