Eureka Library Open House Draws Support

Library usage at the increased by 20 percent since the facility re-opened at its new location at 156 Eureka Towne Center in the building formerly used by Blockbuster.

Eureka Mayor Kevin Coffey told grand opening attendees he could remember 30 years ago when Eureka had nothing but book mobiles. "What a change," he said. "Eureka has grown 400 percent in population, and we hope the library continues to grow with us."

Coffey said instead of the library being behind in timing of stated wishes of local residents, he believed it was one step ahead by demonstrating innovative technology and other resources that people will need in the future.

Joe Blanner, vice president of the and board member of The Eureka Project—a grassroots initiative to raise funds and support for a new library—told attendees the Eureka business community viewed the library as a great asset for children and adults alike.

"We on The Eureka Project were pleased to partner with the Chamber to promote activities that supported this library, and we hope to continue to work together to further the expansion of the library," Blanner said.

Eureka board of alderman Wes Sir said there was a real need in the community for a bigger, better library system.

Attendees could register for book giveaways. The Eureka Project members provided refreshments.

A total of 20 to 25 toddlers arrived to see the clown who was making balloon creations for them Tuesday, and to participate in a special story telling session. After singing lyrics, such as "Shake My Sillies Out," "Clap My Crazies Out," "Jump My Jiggles Out," and "Yawn My Sleepies Out," children got to "Wiggle Their Waggles Away."

The book chosen for the fun day with toddlers was What Did You Put In Your Pocket?

The grand opening was the first visit Shirley Rustige of Eureka had made to the new library location. She's a member of The Wednesday Club, an entity that donated to the library project. She said she was tremendously enthused about the adult best sellers being pulled out and displayed separately.

Ginger O'Fallon of Eureka is also a member of The Wednesday Club. She said it was great to see such a large children's section and places for parents to sit down with them and spread out. "It's also nice to see an Adult Large Print section all to itself," she said.

For a Top 10 list of books most checked out by adults, teens and children at the Eureka location during December, .

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