The scene was set for a beautiful grand opening.
The Hickory Police Department Presented the Flags.
The Hickory High School Band made an impressive entrance.
Mayor William R. McDonald III welcomed everyone.
Director Philip Cherry thanked everyone for their help with the project.
Advisory Board Chair Hugh Boyer spoke of all the hard work that had gone into
the new facility.
Friends' President Mary Ellen Snodgrass spoke of the Friends' involvement.
Harley Shuford, Jr., Chairman of the Arts Council of Catawba County Foundation
Board, welcomed the library to the S.A.L.T. Block.
Caroline Shepherd ably represented the State Library for the occasion.
U. S. Representative Cass Ballinger brought greetings from Washington.
The Western Piedmont Symphony's Brass Ensemble set the stage for the grand
event.
Board Chair Hugh Boyer, Friends President Mary Ellen Snodgrass, State Library
Representative Caroline Shepherd, major donors Pat and Don Beaver, and Director
Philip Cherry cut the ribbon.
The Western Piedmont Symphony's String Quartet provided exquisite background
music.
The Suzuki School filled the rotunda with beautiful music.
The Information Services Department was full of excited customers.
Information Specialist Buddy Spoon assists a young customer with the new
technology.
Other customers were equally eager to get a first-hand look.
The Children's Department was also busy with customers enjoying new technology.
Children also enjoyed the balloon animals made by the clown.
A juggler kept everyone entertained.
Approximately 3,000 customers toured the new facility during Grand Opening.
