Fundraising Event to Benefit

New Regional Library in Fontana

Release Date: March 16, 2006

The Mayor and Mayor’s Gala Committee are pleased to announce all proceeds from the 4th Annual Mayor’s Gala will benefit the new regional Library and Resource/Technology Center. The Mayor’s Gala will be taking place on April 8, 2006 at Jack Bulik Pavilion, 16581 Filbert Street, Fontana, CA 92335.

For years, the small 13,000 square foot County branch library on Emerald Avenue served the residents of Fontana adequately, but today, with a patron base of over 200,000, it is apparent that a modern, more technologically advanced library is necessary to enhance personal, professional, recreational and lifelong learning goals. The new regional Library and Resource/Technology Center, set to open in the spring of 2008, will be the first significant new building in the Fontana Civic Center. Set in the new civic center park, the Library represents the new Fontana – proud of its past but looking toward the future. The community is looking to this regional Library to establish a new civic image for the City as well as provide a stimulus for the revitalization of the historic downtown. The Library will fulfill the community’s desire for improved library services as well as establish an icon for a maturing and growing City.

The Library is projected to cost approximately $45 million when fully developed and equipped. While both the City of Fontana and the County of San Bernardino have been working hard to procure funds, private contributions are still needed to help offset construction costs and provide service and program enhancements to the new Library. To meet this need, the Library Foundation has launched a major capital campaign with the goal of raising $20 million.

From adopting a book to naming the entire facility, there is a way for everyone to become part of the team that is making this magnificent Library and Resource/Technology Center possible.

To discuss donation/giving opportunities, please contact Kathleen Fariss, Director of Development, at 909-350-6586 or kfariss@fontana.org. To monitor the progress of the development of the Library itself, visit www.fontanalibrary.org.

Tickets for the Mayor’s Gala event may be purchased at any City of Fontana community center or by mail at 9460 Sierra Ave., Fontana, CA 92335 for $65 per person prior to March 24, 2006. Reserve your tickets early – this event sells out each year.

Kyla Brown may be reached at (909) 428-8360, ext. 227 for further information or to become an event sponsor.