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Central Library Project Groundbreaking Scheduled for Friday, September 27 at 10 a.m.

Library News & Announcements RSS Feed September 5, 2002

The entire Indianapolis community is invited to be a part of history during the Groundbreaking Celebration for the $104 million transformation of Central Library downtown on Friday, September 27 at 10 a.m. on the American Legion Mall across from Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair Street.

Since it opened in 1917, Central Library has served as the foundation of the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library system and has been regarded as one of the architectural treasures of the City. The transformation project will result in needed improvements to meet the knowledge and information needs of greater Indianapolis throughout the 21st century.

Those attending the Groundbreaking Celebration are in store for a highly-festive and participatory occasion. Emceed by Emmy-winning documentary producer and veteran broadcaster Tom Cochrun, the Groundbreaking Celebration will feature a number of special presentations.

Following the singing of the "Star Spangled Banner" by gospel recording artist Gina Nelson, the President of Martin University, the Rev. Fr. Boniface Hardin, will re-enact "A Plea for a Public Library," originally delivered as a Thanksgiving Day sermon in 1868 by the Reverend Mr. Hanford A. Edson, pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, as a call for the creation of a public library in Indianapolis.

The Keynote Address will be presented by noted Indiana author and Distinguished Professor of English at Indiana University Scott Russell Sanders.

Internationally-recognized writer, musician and educator Mari Evans will recite a poem she has written to commemorate the Groundbreaking event. All in attendance will receive a copy of Ms. Evans' poem as a memento of this event.

City officials, including Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, along with IMCPL representatives, also will deliver special remarks.

Everyone will be invited to participate in a panoramic photograph taken by acclaimed Indiana photographer Darryl Jones, who will use a vintage 1907 Kodak Circuit Camera to produce this unique photograph. Attendees may order a copy of the photograph at cost.

Also on the grounds of the American Legion Mall will be displays of historic photographs and news clippings of Central Library.

Refreshments will be available.

Free public parking will be available at the Murat Theatre, 502 N. New Jersey Street. Free shuttle service will be provided to and from the Groundbreaking Celebration site.