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With windows spanning the length of the expanded and renovated Lake Forest Park Library, residents were excited to explore the light-filled space at the opening celebration on the morning of Saturday, January 7.

As more than 200 residents gathered for the opening celebration, the Highland Dancers from Shorecrest High School entertained the crowd. KCLS Director Bill Ptacek welcomed residents to the opening event, which marks the 17th library enhancement project to be completed as part of the 2004 capital bond.

“KCLS Libraries continue to flourish,” said Ptacek.

KCLS Board Member Jessica Bonebright thanked the citizens for their continued support of the library and for voting in 2004 to pass the bond measure.

“Libraries continue to have an important role in providing resources and serving as gathering places,” said Bonebright.

The mayor of Lake Forest Park, Mary Jane Goss, talked about the partnership between the city and library system over the years and said Lake Forest Park Library is a top circulating library for its size.

The project architect, Kevin Oremus, discussed the environmentally friendly building materials and recycled content that were used for the project. Other project highlights include dedicated Teen and Children’s Areas, a 500-square-foot multipurpose room, new furniture and a public computer cyber bar. The Library was expanded to 5,841 square feet, which is 60 percent larger than the original library.

“Most of you remember what the library used to be like,” Oremus said. “When you go in today, think about the differences.”

Once the doors officially opened, people were invited inside to tour the library and enjoy refreshments provided by the Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library with support from Great Harvest and The Honey Bear Bakery & Cafe.