| GERMAN-MASONTOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY |
| What's Up @ GMPL? |
| 2006 marked an exciting milestone as the German-Masontown Public Library entered its 40th ANNIVERSARY of service to the community. Several events to celebrate this momentous accomplishment were made possible through the generous support of many individuals, groups, and municipal leaders. The Board of Directors has discussed exciting plans to improve our programs and facilities in the near future. Check back soon for more information. A major RENOVATION PROJECT has been in progress at the library to preserve and upgrade our building for future generations. The first component of the project was water abatement which has prevented further damage to the lower level. Water damaged and cracked, peeling walls have been repaired and painted, and new ceilings and lighting fixtures have been installed. In addition, the electrical system has been enhanced to meet the increased demand of new technologies. The outside brick was repointed and repaired, and a new energy efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system has been installed. SPECIAL THANKS are extended to three individuals who have devoted countless hours to making our renovation project a reality. Former board member PATRICIA LUBITS-GUMP has researched, written, and received numerous grants which have enabled the library to afford these needed upgrades. Pat has also taken care of many "behind the scenes" responsibilities at the library. Board member BARBARA RHOADES supervised the interior plastering and painting and worked with local authorities to have landscaping and exterior painting completed at the library; Barb has spent many hours making contacts, developing specifications, and organizing schedules to minimize disruption to daily library operations. JOHN HRANEC, current President of the Library Board of Directors, has volunteered his expertise in construction and has served as project manager for our renovation work; in addition, John has performed many necessary maintenance tasks and donated materials to improve our facility. The valued contributions of Pat, Barb, and John will live on for many years as the community enjoys its beautiful library. The German-Masontown Library recently held an all day CROATIAN GENEALOGY SEMINAR. We were fortunate to have had Robert Jerin, Director of the Croatian Heritage Museum and Library in Cleveland, Ohio, as the seminar leader. Mr. Jerin is a well-known Croatian genealogy researcher and seminar presenter. Participants included not only people from our local towns but also people who traveled great distances to attend this highly successful event. For further information on Croatian genealogy, please visit Mr. Jerin's web site. The Friends of the Library have hosted several LOCAL AUTHORS who have shared information about their work as well as examples of their writing. These events also include book signings and discussions and are open to the public. Contact the library for upcoming presentations by local authors. Stop by the library SOON and see WHAT'S UP! |
 |