Goshen's 'miracle' library celebrates grand opening

By Geri Corey
A bright sun and clear blue skies welcomed the grand opening of the Goshen Public Library and Historical Society on Saturday, July 13.
The dedication ceremony, held at the entrance to the building at 366 Main St., Goshen, was well attended by staff, the board of directors, and many patrons and friends who had joyfully anticipated this day.
“I heard that 'slo-motion-Goshen’ would never get a library,” said Director Matt Gomm, drawing attention to the handsome new building. "I heard it would take a miracle. Well, this is a miracle. All roadblocks have disappeared.”
Gomm commented on the great increase in library memberships since the new space had opened. “Business is booming,” he exclaimed.
Bill Troy, Chair of the Fundraising Committee, thanked the people for their donations making the library “the best it can be.”
The goal of reaching $300,000 for upgrades was exceeded by $125,000, reaching $425,000.
"The fundraising was a smashing success, making this library the best it can be," said Troy.
The bells and whistles
Michelle Muller, Head of Youth Services, was pleased to relate the multitude of amenities the new building has to offer:
Elevator to reach the second floor
Wheel chair accessible
Room for service dogs to be a part of the community library
Five public bathrooms (with changing tables), two staff bathrooms
Friends of the library quaint bookshop inside the entrance
Large driveway—patrons won’t have to back out onto main st.!; Ample parking lot
Local history room with books, maps, microfilm; display cases for artifacts
Teen room with comfortable seating
Large meeting room and several smaller rooms for meetings and study
Large children’s reading room, with stroller parking
And, of course, books, books and more books!
Enrichment for life
The commendations included a Certificate of Merit from the office of New York State Assemblyman Colin Schmidt, a Certificate of Recognition from the office of New York State Senator James Skoufis, and a Proclamation from the office of New York State Senator Jenn Metzger.
The Goshen Public Library and Historical Society is ready to fulfill its mission statement, as read by Katie DeFusto of the library's Junior Friends:
“To provide and promote open and equal access to ideas and to the resources and services of the library to meet informational, educational and cultural needs of the community. The Library strives to enrich reading and the use of technology for lifelong learning and the enhancement of the individual’s quality of life.”
After the ribbon-cutting, participants were encouraged to tour the library tours and partake of refreshments in the large community room.
Related story
Please see related story on chroniclenewspaper.com, "New Goshen library nears completion, May opening is planned."