The community flocked to the Colfax Library Wednesday to celebrate its reopening after a nine month, $1 million dollar renovation. The crowds, estimated to be 1000 strong, ebbed and flowed throughout the day. Residents toured the building while kids enjoyed a number of activities centered round the new children's area, Hayden's Corner.

The event culminated at 7 p.m. with a dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting hosted by library director Kristie Kirkpatrick. First and foremost, her appreciation went out to the community with nearly every person playing some part by volunteering their time, financially or by writing heartfelt letters of support.

Architect Larry Kom of Castellaw Kom Architecture in Lewiston was praised for solving a number of accessibility issues while preserving the original design and character of the historic library building.

After extending thanks to the library staff, board of trustees, friends group and a number of dignitaries on hand, Kirkpatrick introduced the ceremonial ribbon cutters. With a count of one, two, three from the crowd, the group extended their scissors to officially re-dedicate the Colfax Library.

The groups was as follows:

Matt and Jill Klaveano suffered an unimaginable loss when their young son Hayden died in early 2008. Thanks to their generosity along with an outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the entire community, the Klaveano's created a special place for all children, Hayden's Corner. Hayden's Corner along with its amazing Rain Forest tree is a touching gift to us all that will inspire countless numbers of children, including Hayden's sister Sophie and his brother Dutch.

Arlene Gordon and her daughter Amy represented Elizabeth Gordon. Elizabeth's love of reading began as a young child using the bookmobile in Pampa. That love continued throughout her lifetime and successful career as a prosecuting attorney in Oregon. Her generous bequest helped fund the library renovation.

Lucille Willson attended on behalf of Kathy Schluneger who was her close friend and cousin. Kathy loved the library, studying library science in college and spending lots of time in the Colfax Library. In later years, Kathy became frustrated that she couldn't attend events in the library's basement meeting room. Thanks to Kathy's generous bequest, we now have that elevator making that space accessible to everyone.

Alex McGregor has long supported the library. At the start of this project, Alex very smartly suggested that instead of a single donation, he challenge other community members to make contributions that he would match. This brilliant and generous strategy boosted the library's fundraising efforts. Alex and the McGregor Company also funded the library's Rural Heritage exhibit in the meeting room foyer.

As our state representative in the 9th legislative district, Joe Schmick worked diligently on behalf of our community to help secure a sizeable capital facilities grant for the renovation project. Further demonstrating his belief and support for the library and this project, Joe and his wife Kim donated privately as well.

Gayle Larsen construction project coordinator represented the Avista Corporation, who gave generously toward this project and others library projects within the community.

Virginia Pittman has been Friends of the Library president for the past ten years and was recently named Washington State Library Friend of the Year as well. Ginny worked diligently with the library to raise money for this project, while she and her husband Jack gave generously as well.

Representing the Board of Trustees was this year's chairman, John Aune. 2011 will mark John's final term totaling 14 years of community service to the library board where he will be sorely missed. He and his wife Jane were also generous donors to the project.

Kristie Kirkpatrick has been Whitman County Library director for 12 years and worked for the library district a total of 22 years. She enjoys, appreciates and supports the library as both an employee and a resident of the community.