York County Libraries held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to reopen Kaltreider-Benfer Library in Red Lion on April 29th. The event signals the completion of York County Libraries’ three capital campaign building projects. Speakers included York County Economic Alliance President and CEO Kevin Schreiber, York County President Commissioner Julie Wheeler, Kaltreider-Benfer Library Executive Director Don Dellinger, Kaltreider-Benfer Library Board of Directors President Theresa Craley, York County Libraries President Robert F. Lambert, “Imagine. Discover. Connect.” Capital Campaign Honorary Co-Chair Bill Shipley and Former Member of the House of Representatives, The Honorable Stanley E. Saylor.
An Incredible Transformation
A year ago, library staff moved 45,000 books, shelves, and furniture to make way for construction. They operated out of a temporary site while Warehaus York and Kinsley Construction, Inc designed and led the incredible transformation of the library. The $2 million renovation and construction project expanded the library to 13,358 square feet. As a result, the library now features dedicated children and teen spaces, an open service area, additional computers, seating, and meeting spaces.
Third and Final
The ribbon-cutting ceremony represents a significant moment for York County Libraries. Kaltreider-Benfer Library is the third and final of YCL’s three capital campaign building projects to be completed. It was in April 2019 that YCL unveiled plans to transform three libraries into state-of-the-art library facilities. This endeavor marks the first simultaneous, multi-location expansion project in York County Libraries’ 49-year history.
Funds for all three building projects were raised through the “Imagine. Discover. Connect.” capital campaign led by co-chairs Mike Kochenour and Lynda Randall, with the honorary campaign co-chairs Jody Keller, Bill Shipley, and Tony Campisi. A large team of campaign volunteers, generous local support, matching grants, and the Financial Assistance of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania brought the projects to fruition. Kreutz Creek Library and Martin Library celebrated their opening to the public last April and July, respectively.
A Community Celebration
Crowds turned out Saturday for both the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and the library’s Grand Reopening Celebration. Saturday’s date, April 29th, marks the 23rd Anniversary of the library’s dedication at 147 S. Charles Street in 2000. It was newly built at that time. Kaltreider-Benfer Library has served the community since 1963 and will reach the milestone of 60 years this October.
Want a glimpse of the weekend’s festivities and the new library? Take a look through the pictures below:
Kaltreider-Benfer Library 5.1.2023 by YCL Marketing