Friends of the Library say the two screened-in porches would be more useful
as enclosed rooms to accommodate the many groups using the library.
Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star
By Mary Thurwachter
Since it opened its doors in 2006 after previously occupying a small space in Town Hall, the Highland Beach Library has become wildly popular.
The 11,000-square-foot edifice on the Intracoastal Waterway provides a home to 35,000 books, a small army of computers, an impressive collection of movies and magazines and enough comfy chairs to make the idea of curling up with a good book a tempting one.
But the library isn’t just about books. It has become a community center, home to art shows and concerts, dance classes and philosophical chat rooms, and activities for toddlers and teens.
The library’s meeting rooms are so frequently occupied that the Friends of the Library, an all-volunteer fundraising group, has launched a campaign to raise money to enclose two porches.
“We need to enclose the two screened-in terraces at the library to make additional meeting rooms,” said Friends President Marge Lanthier. “There are so many activities going on at the Highland Beach Library that we frequently run out of space.”
The porches are already popular, but Lanthier said the space would be better used if enclosed.
“We do use the terraces, but rain, humidity and just very hot weather make them impractical,” she said. “Their location provides a lovely view of the Intracoastal, and we would like to preserve that view by exchanging the screening for windows and air conditioning. The change in use would require new furnishings for one of the terraces.”
Cost of the project is projected to be $150,000.
One of the ways the Friends will raise money for the project will be a wine and cheese party from 5 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 6. The event will be in the library’s community room.
Admission is $25 per person and includes two drinks as well as a selection of fine cheeses and chocolates and live music. Shuttle service will be available from St. Lucy’s parking lot. A raffle of special gifts will top off the evening.
Tickets will be available at the library through Nov 29, payable with cash or check.
For more information, call (561) 278-5455.
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