In the warm glow of Cedar Park's city hall, excitement filled the air as community leaders gathered to celebrate a significant milestone—the opening of the new public library. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as Kristen Hughe, the campaign director turned executive director, took the stage to share the success of the library enhancement campaign.
With heartfelt gratitude, Hughe expressed her appreciation for the community's support, noting how the library has become a cherished space for residents. "Seeing people come into this space, their eyes light up, enjoying all of the incredible resources that are inside, is truly rewarding," she said, reflecting on the project's impact.
The campaign aimed to raise $1.5 million, and Hughe proudly announced that they have already secured over $1.1 million in pledges, with $700,000 collected to date. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a substantial check for $500,000, a testament to the community's generosity and commitment to enhancing local resources.
The contributions came from a diverse group of donors, each playing a vital role in the campaign's success. Hughe emphasized that many individuals offered their time, talent, and treasure, showcasing the community's spirit of collaboration. "We are so thankful to share this moment with you," she said, as the audience erupted in applause.
City officials expressed their gratitude for the foundation's efforts, acknowledging the transformative effect the library has had on the community. The evening concluded with an invitation for more residents to get involved, encouraging them to reach out to the foundation or library staff to contribute in various ways.
As the meeting wrapped up, the sense of pride and accomplishment lingered in the air, leaving attendees eager to see how the library will continue to enrich the lives of Cedar Park residents in the years to come.