More than 150 guests came together Thursday night as The Greenville-Butler County Public Library and Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a Grand Opening Gala & Fundraiser for the library to unveil the newly renovated building.

The ticketed event included a preview and walkthrough of the library, as well as a silent auction.   Guests then made their way to the Camellia Pavilion for a seafood dinner sponsored by Wintzell’s Oyster House.   Those in attendance enjoyed live music courtesy of local favorites Rock Killough and Steve Norman.

“I was overwhelmed at the show of support from the community on Thursday night,” said Library Director Kevin Pearcey.  “I thought the event went really well. The food, from Wintzell’s, was excellent and we thank Rock (Killough) and Steve (Norman) for providing the entertainment.  We also thank Francine (Wasden) and Stephanie (Steadham), the Chamber board and staff for their help in making the event a huge success.”

A ribbon cutting for the library was held on Friday to celebrate the library’s official reopening to the public.

Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce Director Francine Wasden said that the chamber was proud to be a part of the library’s reopening process.  “The library is a huge part of our community.  So many people use the library and the pavilion, so it’s important to have such a wonderful location in our town.  It’s a very impressive area and something we can all be proud of.”

The library was built in 1992 and has remained largely unchanged during more than two decades.  As part of the renovations the shelving and furniture was replaced; the circulation control desk was reconstructed; the interior of the facility was repainted and new carpet installed; the carpet in the Community Room was replaced with tile; ceramic tile in the foyer was replaced; the children’s area was refurbished; the outside sign was refurbished; new LED lights were installed throughout the inside area; and additional computer workstations have been added.

The project was funded in part by reserve funds the library has set aside over the years.  The remainder was covered by grants and funds generated through a capital improvement campaign.