All Systems are GO in Greenfield!

A library booster eyeing the pile of ceremonial ground to be broken.

We love milestone moments at public libraries. Grand openings, ribbon cuttings, unveilings, and groundbreakings are all events that should be celebrated. When we heard the Greenfield Public Library was doing a groundbreaking for their new library, we knew we had to be there!

Greenfield has a special place in our hearts. It was, in a funny way, where we were reminded just how awesome libraries are. You can read about that adventure here. Later, we were invited to Greenfield to see why a new library was needed. We went and wrote about what we saw and heard and supported the case for a new library. It was something we were happy to do.

Last week, I rolled into Greenfield bright and early. It was pouring. Would the event be held outside as planned? Would they have to bring it indoors? Would the rain come to an end? Only time would tell . . .

I waded through the parking lot (not hyperbole) and spotted Rachel Roberts, coordinator of the Greenfield Public Library Foundation. She was readying the stage. As we chatted, she introduced me to Ed Berlin, co-chair of the Greenfield Library Building Committee. We all griped about the rain, and as we were talking, I was surprised that the issue of protesters came up. Protesters against a public library? It seemed unbelievable to me, but we live in strange times.

To get a break from the rain, the three of us made our way into the library, where I was able to get a delicious hot cup of coffee. Rachel pointed out that all of the refreshments had been donated by local businesses, it was just one example of the support the library enjoys in the community.

At 10:00, we made our way outside. The rain had stopped and a large crowd - around 100 people - had gathered for the ceremony. 

The first speaker was Mayor Roxann Wedegartner. Referencing the inclement weather, she observed that the library would be built - rain, shine, or hurricane. “Ain’t no stopping us now!” she assured the crowd. 

George Comeau, from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), spoke next. He talked about the revitalization of libraries across the Commonwealth, and reminded people that libraries are more than “bricks and mortar or books and shelves.” He went on to say that there would be a new public library - and that it would be used by all. He praised the vision and dedication of those involved with the project, saying the new library would “make all our lives richer and more fulfilling.”

Doris Cowdrey, chair of the Greenfield Public Library Board of Trustees, described the day as the culmination of a nine-year effort. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but the community and the MBLC stood by and supported the effort through thick and thin. “Communities that have built new libraries have experienced almost magical things,” she said, and she promised the audience that the new library in Greenfield would be “mind blowing.”

The next speaker was the afore-mentioned Ed Berlin. He kept his comments short and sweet, praising the MBLC for their support, and he delivered a message from Tim Farrell, his fellow co-chair of the Library Building Committee: “We are on time and we are on budget.”

The final speaker was Ellen Boyer, the library’s director. She spoke of the “long strange trip,” it had been to reach the day’s groundbreaking ceremony and described some of the exhilarations and tribulations along the way. She also pointed out that this new library would be the first purpose-built library for the city. In the end, she said, “Greenfield’s future shines bright because of this library.”

And with that, attention turned to a large pile of earth with shovels sticking out like porcupine quills. Those involved donned hardhats and grabbed shovels and took turns symbolically turning the soil. With that, the ceremony ended and all were invited inside for refreshments. 

Unfortunately, not everyone shared this hopeful and optimistic vision of the city’s future. A small band of protesters were on the scene - perhaps 10 or 12 people - to disrupt the proceedings. I was torn about how to address this. Perhaps it would be best to ignore them and simply highlight the positive vibe of the morning. It’s important, though, to recognize that views like this exist in our communities. 

They came with signs, slogans, and anger. “Find the fraud!” someone shouted. “Liars,” yelled another. When these people booed speakers, the speakers calmly and politely asked to be allowed to finish. Commissioner Comeau promised he would speak with them after the event and he was true to his word. When they tried to get behind or beside speakers to wave their signs, several citizens of Greenfield opened umbrellas to create a colorful visual barrier. It was a sign of solidarity and support that said more about the character of the city than the protesters ever could.   

Despite their efforts, it was a lovely event and a wonderful milestone on the city’s journey to a new library. Having had a glimpse of the hard work and dedication of so many people involved in the project, it was moving to see it taking the next step forward. I was happy to be there and can’t wait to be on hand when the ribbon is cut and the new library opened!