The North Bergen Free Public Library, in collaboration with the township, celebrated the grand opening of the library’s temporary location at 510 81st St. with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday afternoon.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Our public libraries have always been cornerstones of our community and we are excited to open this temporary location to ensure continued access to educational resources, programming, and services,” Mayor Nick Sacco said in a statement.
“The outpouring of community members for the ribbon cutting ceremony was outstanding and it shows how much this means to everyone.”
The packed room at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2294, the new temporary location of the uptown library, was treated to light refreshments, face-painting and balloon creations for children, as well as various other free, family friendly activities.
The $3 million renovation is funded by a grant from the New Jersey State Library, secured in partnership with the North Bergen Health Department. The main library building at 8411 Bergenline Ave. is currently under renovation.
The event marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the library as it continues to provide essential resources and services to residents through the renovation period. Residents will continue to enjoy a variety of activities, including special programming for children.
“We are so thrilled to open this space for our community,” added North Bergen Free Public Library Executive Director Sai Rao.
“Having everyone here to celebrate this temporary location is just one part of a larger plan and it’s an honor to serve North Bergen in this way. Thank you to my staff and everyone who pulled together to make this happen.”
Additionally, Bergen County Cooperative Library System (BCCLS) Director Dave Hanson was a notable attendee at the ribbon-cutting; North Bergen is part of the BCCLS library system and this location will continue to provide services within the cooperative.
Also in attendance were various local elected officials including Assemblyman Julio Marenco (D-33), Hudson County Commissioner Bob Baselice (D-8), and Township Commissioners Hugo Cabrera, Anthony Vainieri, Claudia Rodriguez, and Allen Pascual.
“A part of the VFW’s commitment is through the local community,” noted VFW New Jersey District 3 Commander Derek Farthing.
“That commitment is embedded in the hearts and minds of the Post members to be involved where they live. We are thrilled to partner with the town to bring this location to life for the community.”
The new temporary space will continue to offer books, technology access, and community programs.
“You can start borrowing your books…tomorroooooow,” sang Rao when asked by a member of the audience when they can start using the space.
