By Rowan Forster
The Emerald Library has received a whopping $24,500 donation – one of the largest ever received by Casey Cardinia Libraries.
Emerald Mechanics Institute representatives, Ray Spencer and Ron Harmer, on Tuesday presented the cheque to Jessica Nichols and Chris Buckingham.
The company chose to bankroll the Emerald Library because of the shared commitment to lifelong learning and community strengthening by both organisations.
“Casey Cardinia Libraries is deeply grateful for this generous donation,” CEO of Casey Cardinia Libraries, Mr Chris Buckingham said.
“There is a strong sense of connection between public libraries and mechanics institutes – we share the same DNA.
“We believe in encouraging literacy and lifelong learning in our community”
The shock donation will be used to continue the valuable work by the Emerald Library.
“Casey Cardinia Libraries are committed to making sure the funds provided by the Emerald Mechanics Institute are used to enhance the Emerald Library,” Mr Buckingham said.
To further embed their legacy in the Emerald community, the Mechanics Institute will soon release a book about their history and work in the region since their establishment more than a century ago.
The book will be added to the library’s collections as well as being available for sale from the library.
‘This is the largest direct contribution we have received in recent times,” he added.
Anyone wanting to make a donation or bequest to support their local library service is welcome to contact Chris Buckingham, CEO Casey Cardinia Libraries, directly.
