The Greenville-Butler County Public Library and Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce have joined together to present a Grand Opening Gala & Fundraiser for the library in August when the newly renovated building opens to the public.

The date of the event is Thursday, Aug. 18, starting at 6 p.m. Tickets, which are limited in availability, can be purchased at the Chamber for $25 each.

That Thursday night’s ticketed event will include a preview and walkthrough of the library, as well as a silent auction. Guests will then make their way to the Camellia Pavilion for a seafood dinner provided by Wintzell’s Oyster House, and live music courtesy of local favorites Rock Killough and Steve Norman.

“Wintzell’s is very generous to donate the food and manpower to cater this event, and Rock and Steve are donating their time and talent as well, which is certainly appreciated,” said Library Director Kevin Pearcey. “We also wish to thank Francine (Wasden), the Chamber board and staff for their help in getting this event going.”

The ribbon cutting for the library will be held on Friday, Aug. 19, at 9 a.m., when the facility is officially opened to the public.

“We’re happy we’re able to help the library show all the preparation and hard work that’s went into renovating the library,” said Wasden.

Workers started renovating the interior of the library on June 1. Work is scheduled to be completed on Aug. 1, but staff will need additional time to bring in new furniture, shelving and the bulk of the library’s collection, which has been in storage for the past two months.

“We can’t wait to show off the facility,” said Pearcey. “Basically, the entire look and layout of the building has changed and what’s been created is a more open, brighter, and more 21st century library.”

Call the Chamber of Commerce at 382-3251 for tickets.