Looking good

If it takes a library to raise a community (according to the slogan on a bag Joyce Cunningham carries around), then Fort Frances will be in very good hands, indeed.
The latest plans for the proposed Fort Frances Library and Technology Centre—a 15,000 sq. ft. facility to be located at the corner of Second Street East and Reid Avenue (get it, “Reid” Avenue)—were unveiled during Monday night’s town council meeting and they can be summed up in one word: “Wow.”
Given the cramped space at the current library on Church Street, the new one obviously will be welcomed by patrons and staff alike with its “open concept” interior, natural lighting, lounges, lower shelves, and wider aisles, to name just a few of its features.
But just as important is the prospect of tapping an even broader segment of the population—thanks to its central location adjacent to the Memorial Sports Centre and by rightfully focusing on being a “technology” centre, as well.
It’s certainly been a slow process since planning for a new library here first started back in 1995, but those who have persevered over the past 13 years deserve kudos for doggedly pursuing what will be a state-of-the-art facility to lead Fort Frances into the 21st century.
Equally impressive is how residents have opened their wallets over the past few months to make the new library a reality. With the local share of the $3.8-million project earmarked at $750,000, about two-thirds ($500,000) has been raised so far.
Then again, local residents always have been generous when it comes to supporting new facilities, including the Townshend Theatre and Ice for Kids Arena, that make our community a better place to live.
Thanks to the efforts and support of many, we’ll soon have yet another source of civic pride to enjoy.