By Joyce DeWallace, Contributing Writer
Shrewsbury – A light rain was falling under gray November skies, but nothing could dampen the enthusiasm as well over 100 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the long-anticipated improvements to the Shrewsbury Public Library. Before picking up the ceremonial shovels and donning hard hats, many of the individuals responsible for two-year renovation project were thanked for their efforts to reach this major milestone.
“This is an asset which will shape and reshape our community for many years to come,” said Lt. Governor-elect Karyn Polito.
State Representative Matt Beaton, R-Shrewsbury, told stories about coming to the library every day after school, using the meeting rooms for many gatherings, and how personally meaningful this project is to him.
“This is really a community center and a resource for everybody,” he said.
Laurie Hogan, chair of the Board of Trustees of the library, acted as the emcee for the program, as speaker after speaker praised the efforts of so many people who helped make this project a reality, including Library Director Ellen Dolan.
After the Veterans Council presented the colors, members of the Shrewsbury High School A Cappella Choir sang a touching rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
The new library will be designed by the architectural firm of Lamoureaux & Pagano. PMA Consultants is the project manager, and Fontaine Brothers will act as the construction manager. The new library is expected to be completed by the summer of 2016.