TITLE
A RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE 150 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN LIBRARY AND OPENING OF THE NEW GAHANNA BRANCH BUILDING ON MARCH 4, 2023
BODY
WHEREAS, March 4, 2023, marks 150 years since the founding of the Columbus Metropolitan Library; and
WHEREAS, the Gahanna Community celebrates not only 150 years of service but also the grand opening of the new building of the Columbus Metropolitan Library - Gahanna Branch; and
WHEREAS, the Gahanna Branch has and will continue to serve thousands of families in developing literacy, furthering the love of the pursuit of knowledge, assisting with digital skills development and use of technology, and providing opportunity for job seekers; and
WHEREAS, we use this occasion to celebrate the public library system, librarians, and staff for their importance in creating equity, opportunity, and community in Gahanna and across our Metropolitan region; and
WHEREAS, the former building that housed the Gahanna Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library was built in 1991, renovated in 1998, and was approximately 21,400 square feet. Today, the new two-story building is approximately 36,400 square feet and includes dedicated spaces and services designed to impact young minds, meeting rooms and quiet rooms, broader access to technology, and the integration of local history and character; and
WHEREAS, in addition to being a vital community asset, Columbus Metropolitan Library strives to minimize its environmental footprint. The Gahanna Branch, along with CML’s other construction projects, uses sustainable building materials, incorporates glass for natural light to reduce energy costs and introduces other design and building elements friendly to the natural environment; and
WHEREAS, the City of Gahanna is grateful for all the contributors who have endeavored with their time, talents, and financial resources to make the new Gahanna Branch possible, particularly for Columbus Metropolitan Library benefactors Don and Lisal Gorman, and Gahanna resident Michael Suriano, the lead architect on the project; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Metropolitan Library and its staff are celebrated and applauded for ensuring continuity of services by maintaining a fully operational and well-utilized temporary branch location in Gahanna throughout the construction of the new building with only a one-week closure between the closing of the old building and opening of the temporary location.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. This City Council celebrates, supports, and expresses its gratitude to the Columbus Metropolitan Library for 150 years in Central Ohio.
Section 2. This City Council celebrates the momentous and joyful occasion of the opening of the new building of the Gahanna Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library on March 4, 2023.
Section 3. This City Council invites Gahanna residents and visitors to join in the celebration of the 150 years of our public library system and opening of our new Gahanna Branch building by visiting the new branch, utilizing Columbus Metropolitan Library services in person and online, and sharing the joys of reading with others.
Section 4. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect at the earliest period allowed by law.