Whistler's Public Library is OPEN!

I thought the Queen was coming to town! Seriously Dollz, I asked my hubby if any special dignitaries would be visiting Whistler and he laughed, saying,

"No, Silly, the Library is opening today."

I rushed back to our old jaloppy(car) and dashed back into the Village - How on earth could I have forgotten this very important day?!
I had to park in the Marketplace Square and then dash over like a mad thing towards the opening ceremony.

Everyone and their dog was there:
Whistler Mayor Ken Melamed, members of the Whistler Public Library Board, Library Director Lauren Stara, members of the community and many tourists.

There has been a lot of talk about the $11.2 million budget, with people asking questions like:
"Where did all the money go?"

Well, that's a question for the Whistler Public Library Board, Dollz. I, quite frankly, was overjoyed with gratitude, as were the children, to be able to walk into this immense, bright and welcoming space that I believe will become a focal point in our town. Who knows, it could even encourage more people to read!

Unfortunately, the doggies had to stay outside and lots of them ended up having the most animated discussions about their owners and their lovely lives in Whistler, and fortunately, all of us, children especially, got to walk inside and look around. It was very crowded on that day and I made a mental note to return when it would be quieter.

The first thing that met my eye was the far corner which was a warm fireplace and seriously comfy armchairs.

There were rows and rows of bookshelves, of course, but not as many books as I had imagined. You know, "Big space, many books"? Not so, not yet anyhow. They are on the way - many new books, and old books of every description.

The Self Check Out is most impressive and a smashing hit with the kids - "Just place your book on the grey square and wait for the bell".

My hubby loved the many computers where you are able to look up books, audio-video material and anything else in seconds.

Most of all, I was inspired by the feeling that this was a place where I could come with the children, where we could explore for hours and discover new worlds, new stories and enjoy the magic of reading.

Thank you from all of us for this great blessing that is the Whistler Public Library.

The new Libary is the first in Whistler to have won the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold standing, an achievement gained as the result of its environmentally friendly components, including its green roof and its ability to save $18,000 in energy costs per year as compared to buildings with more conventional design.