events > 2008 March > Guelph Public Library 125th Anniversary

2008 March > Guelph Public Library 125th Anniversary

This year the Guelph Public Library celebrates its 125th anniversary as Ontario's oldest free public library. To kick things off the library held an Open House in February with tributes to the GPL in the form of a humourous new song by James Gordon and a commissioned sculpture by Stephen Lewis. After the formalities there was a big birthday cake to share in the Children's Department and guests took advantage of behind-the-scenes tours of the building. This is the second library building to stand on Norfolk Street and there are plans to build a new main library on Baker Street.

Sculptor Stephen Lewis, songwriter James Gordon, former Chief Librarian John Snell, Board Chair Bruce Weaver & Library Director Linda Kearns join Mayor Karen Farbridge as she cuts the cake

Library supporters Janice Wiseman, Betty Mottin & Val Morse

Sarah & Rose explore the internet together on the Children's Department

James Gordon performs his new song dedicated to the library

Staffers Katie & Chelsea welcome the guests touring the library

Mayor Karen Farbridge speaks to the assembled guests

Stephen Lewis poses with the commissioned sculpture after its unveiling

Imran & Humza on the library computer

Imran & Humza on the library computer

Talia & Megan in the children's department