Donor will match funds given to the Picton Library expansion project this month

Time to Renew Fundraising Committee Chair Alexandra Bake (centre) received a donation from Elizabeth Etue, (left) committee member, and several cheques from individuals wishing to maximize their contribution in October’s special matching funds campaign – thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. Barbara Sweet, the Library’s CEO said the cheques totalled $7,000 and so will realize $14,000 for the expansion project.

In celebration of Library Month, all donations to the Picton library’s ‘Time to Renew’ expansion fundraising campaign will be matched through the generosity of an anonymous donor.

“The matching amount is $100,000,” said Alexandra Bake, chair of the library’s fundraising committee. “So, if we can generate the same amount in October, we will realize $200,000 for our building project.”

During the announcement of the special campaign, Friday, Bake received a donation from Elizabeth Etue, committee member, and several other cheques from individuals wishing to maximize their contribution.

“They totaled $7,000 and so will realize $14,000 for the expansion project,” said Barbara Sweet, the library’s CEO.

Sweet noted bequests, donations, efforts by the Friends of the Picton Libray, a John M and Bernice Parrott Foundation grant, and investment from the municipality have ensured the campaign has reached $1,280,000 of its $2 million expansion budget.

The Time to Renew campaign is for the remaining monies needed to break ground in the spring of 2019.

The 3,400 visitors to the Picton Public Library every month know the 110-year-old Carnegie building is overdue for expansion.

The ‘Time to Renew’ fundraising campaign will fund a modern extension that doubles the size of the branch while maintaining its heritage character.

The expansions allows for an expanded collection, performance arts space with non-profit rental options; a new lecture theatre with assistive technologies; enlarged children’s area with dedicated room for STEM learning; multi-purpose space with internet cafe; accessible public washooms and a new walkway from Mary to Main Street.

Upcoming fundraising events include:

Oct. 12 – Vicki Delany and Linwood Barclay in Conversation 7 p.m. at the Picton Branch. Delany is one of Canada’s most prolific and varied crime writers and Linwood Barclay is a New York Times bestselling author with nearly 20 novels to his credit. Tickets $10.

Oct. 28 – Night at the Library
Sunday, Oct. 28, from 6:30-9 p.m., at Picton Branch Library. A gala fundraiser for the Picton Library expansion. Tickets $50, available at all library branches.

Nov. 24 – An entertaining evening with Carol Off, writer, CBC broadcaster and host of ‘As it Happens’ at 7 p.m. The evening is to feature stories, readings and questions at St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church, Main Street, Picton. Tickets $25.

Visit any one of the County’s library branches for more information, or to make donations, or reserve tickets for events; or click here to visit the Prince Edward County Public Libraries website.

For special bequests or naming opportunities, contact Library CEO Barbara Sweet at 613-476-5962 or email ceo@peclibrary.org