By AMEARA DITSCHE
Arts Editor
The Pine Hills Library has existed in some form almost 120 years, at six different locations throughout its time. The current location at 517 Western Ave. is celebrating 10 years of opening this weekend. The library threw a celebration to mark the accomplishments of the library during its time since the renovations.
The Pine Hills branch first opened at 517 Western Ave. in 1990 where it remained until 2008 when renovations begun. The building was originally the New York Telephone company building.
From 2008 to 2009, the branch was temporarily moved to the Albany Elks Lodge so the renovations could be completed. They opened their new and improved location in Fall of 2009, celebrating their 10-year anniversary this Saturday Nov. 16, 2019.
The event was thrown by Lauren Cardinal, Branch Manager of the Pine Hills Branch.
“Pine Hills Library is one of the busiest branches. We check out the most children’s books in the Albany Public Library. We do partnerships with RIISE, and ESL classes through BOCES,” said Cardinal.
The Pine Hills Library is an important pillar of the community according to many patrons at the event.
“Newspapers are expensive nowadays, So I come here and read them so I know what’s going on,” said Morris D’absolon, a frequent patron of the Pine Hills Branch.
Gail “Strawberry” Huber was also celebrating the library and its resources.
“They help me find jobs and then do the applications and resumes for them,” said Huber. “I only live a few blocks away so I come here all the time to get books and read the newspaper.” Huber shared how the celebration of the library had a significant impact on her because the day of the event also was the two-year anniversary of her boyfriend’s death. “I know he wouldn’t want me to be sad, so I’m here, celebrating for the library and him,” said Huber.
In addition to adults connecting themselves to resources, children also utilize the library frequently. Along with checking out the most children’s books, kids spend a significant amount of time at the library.
“We have kids who come here after school,” said Head Library Clerk Morgan Zell.
Micah George, a 10-year-old from the Pine Hills Neighborhood, was at the event with her dad and sister.
“I like coming to the library because I have a lot of friends here,” said George.
Michael Kendall and his son Nathan Kendall are another familial pack who attended the event.
“We were here when this location first opened. This library has been important to us forever,” said the father.
Zell stressed the importance of libraries, especially in the Albany community.
“It’s a pillar of the community. So many people think it’s just books and movies, but it’s so much more. It is incredibly important to have a free public meeting place where people in Albany can sit and be warm.” said Zell.
The event was busy, with many diverse patrons coming in and out enjoying snacks and face painting. From young to old, members of the community were united on at least one front; they appreciate everything the library had to offer.
Cardinal was floating around making sure everything was going smoothly and everyone was happy. Other supporters of the Albany Public library spoke on their appreciation for her and libraries in general. Gene Damm, President of the Friends of Albany Public library was in attendance and spoke on his appreciation for the library and how important they are to the community.
“I love how the librarians here help me find reading material,” said Damm. “We want to provide community support.”
Melissa Bare, who was a librarian at the time of the location’s opening 10 years ago, also pointed out people’s surprise to libraries being free.
“I still get wonder from people when I tell them they can just walk right in,” said Bare.
Christina Stenson-Carey was also a librarian when the location opened 10 years ago, and still dedicates her time to the library.
“This celebration is a really a testament to the community,” said Stenson-Carey. “They were so supportive of the renovations by voting and supporting us.”
