It’s hard to believe that it has been ten years.

It is true though. Ten years ago we opened the doors to this building on a cold Sunday afternoon in January and watched as members of our community lined the streets from the old building to the new, passing a book from the collection, hand-to-hand, to its new home. We celebrated all the possibilities the new space brought, and then we got to work.

A lot has changed in ten years. We now offer an entire curriculum of computer classes, a host of Workshop programs, digital books and magazines, and an expanded collection of online databases. Our staff members take our book bike to visit our area schools and parks. We offer Art Institute passes, umbrellas for people to check out, and our Eisenhower Exclusives collection for our residents. We have a team of highly trained technology clerks who assist patrons of all ages with their technology needs.

Some things, however, have not changed. Ten years ago we offered one-on-one computer help and instruction. We still do that every single day. Ten years ago we offered exceptional reference service from professionals who were empathetic and respectful of every person and every question. We still do that each day, too. Ten years ago we offered book discussion groups, bus trips, storytimes, and engaging topical programming. We still do all of that.

As much as we work each year to grow and improve, we also work hard to hold on to the things we know work for you, things that let you know we appreciate you, and that you have let us know that we do well.

As we look forward to the next decade and beyond, my pledge to you is that we will continue to look for ways to be better, be innovative, be creative, and to help you be those things as well, but without losing the core of what makes us who we are and what makes us valuable to you.