We are so proud.
Frontenac Friends. I have a little update on the new library, but honestly I'm not quite sure how to put it into words. The library director Seth Nutt made me promise not to give too much away, and the last thing I want to do is ruin the surprise.
What I can tell you is this, it's amazing. The entire library is outstanding. The level of quality that you would expect in a wealthy area of Chicago or New York. Between the coffee shop, reading areas, kitchens, and massive book room. It's classy, warm, inviting, and full of natural light.
However, even unfinished it's clear those beautiful spaces will pale in comparison to Heritage Hall Museum.
Seth has told us all that it will be a mock up of the town from history. What he didn't express was how it would hit you. This isn't a static display. You feel it. You go there. You wander through the town. You touch the brick of the school, hear the sounds of miners working, peek into buildings and come face to face with people from history we've known and loved.
It doesn't feel like a silver dollar city type display. It feels like home.
It's not finished. Not yet. But even so I got choked up. I tried hard to hide the tears as we walked around. I realized completely what Heritage Hall and this library is for our community. It is a permanent reminder of who we are, where we came from, and the kind of community we stand for.
Our children's children will see these captured moments from our town's history and be forever connected.
Seth and his team have created magic. It's time travel via a library. I keep expecting Mrs. Frizzle around any corner.
Heritage Hall will be open for the first time in June during Mining Days this year. I have no doubt how the community will react. No doubt you will all feel the same pride and awe that I felt this morning.
I hope all of you will join me and Hello Frontenac on opening day. More information will be announced as we get closer to June.
To Seth, Tri-state, and all the people involved in this. Siamo così orgogliosi. We are so proud.
