The Abbot Public Library Foundation held a Reopening Gala to celebrate its $1.5 million fundraising effort, which assisted in the library’s $10 million renovation project.
Former Foundation President EuRim Chun said she was delighted that the reopening gala raised more than $100,000 to help grow the library’s endowment, ensuring that it maintains its relevance for the 21st century and beyond.
“I think it’s safe to say that attendees at the gala were incredibly impressed and wowed by the inviting and light-filled spaces to read and explore,” Chun said.
Approximately 150 tickets were purchased for the gala, which meant that close to $38,000 was fundraised for the library through ticket sales alone.
“The successful reopening of our library is a true testament to both the commitment and generosity of taxpayers and private donors alike, who understand and believe in the relevance of a thriving 21st-century library for our historically proud 17th-century town,” she said.
Chun said as she steps down from her position as president, she is very proud of the community for coming together to support the library. She said she wanted her legacy to be bringing people together, and that she has delivered on that promise.
“It was incredibly gratifying for many of us, including members of the Abbot Public Library Advocacy Committee that worked so hard to pass the $8.5 million override and the Abbot Public Library Foundation that raised the $1.5 million to help foot the $10 million renovation project, to share the physical culmination of our work over these past six and a half years,” she said.
She said the success of the library renovation project and its reopening represents the best of the community.
“It simply says that when we come together and work towards making a positive difference for all in our community, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish,” Chun said. “What better gift to share and pass forward than a library? A place of knowledge, endless possibilities, and imagination.”
The Abbot Public Library Foundation, as the private fundraising arm of the library, will continue to raise money toward the $2 million promise made during the tax-override campaign.
The long-awaited reopening of the renovated Library, which was originally scheduled for June 20, has been delayed due to a compliance issue with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which has impeded the library from acquiring its final occupancy permit.
Abbot Library Board of Trustees Chair Gary Amberik said the library is working with the Building Department to open by July 5, if not sooner.
The library’s 79-foot entrance ramp does not have the required landings and handrails to be compliant with the ADA. Library Director Kimberly Grad said that she was just made aware of the situation and is working with the town to resolve the matter.
“The Board of Trustees thanks the Town of Marblehead and the Marblehead Disabilities Commission for their diligence in assuring that we are providing a safe and accessible building for the community to enjoy for years to come,” Grad said in a press release.
Amberik said “We had a very positive meeting with the architect, the Building Commissioner, and the chair of the Marblehead Disabilities Commission on Tuesday and we all agreed on a path forward,” he said.
He said the library has met and exceeded accessibility standards and requirements in many areas throughout the building, including four new ADA-compliant restrooms, a new elevator, and new automatic door operators. He said the library also leveled out the driveway to provide access to the courtyard and added a new curb cut to the lower-level entrance.
“The existing front walkway was in good shape, and the approved plans and project scope did not include or propose any changes to this area since this was understood to have been previously addressed in the 1989 renovation,” Amberik said. “We were fortunate to be able to host our fundraising event last Friday, and everyone was amazed with the new space. We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome everyone back to the library.”