Groundbreakings & Dedications

​Groundbreakings:

Before:

• Put a sign on the site as soon as possible.
• Invite special guests.
• Determine who you'd like to have speak and notify them.
• Determine who you'd like to have dig and notify them.
• Have young library patrons involved.
• Have gold shovels and cameras ready.
• Make sure there is loose soil that can be turned over.  Your contractor can help.
• Plan for any simple refreshments you'd like to have.
• Plan for photos.

During:

• Welcome the public and introduce all politicians, donors, board members, architects, builders, and library staff.
• Mention special functional features that will support convenient, efficient library service.
• Let a few speakers make brief remarks.
• Have the groundbreaking.
• Have the kids break ground.
• Invite attendees for refreshments.

After:

• Thank special guests for attending.

Other Ideas:

• Display models or architectural renderings of the building.
• Use string to create an outline of the building in full scale on the site with signs designating each area.
• Have local musicians perform background music.
• Give away shovel-shaped pens or other novelties inscribed with name of the library and the date.

Dedications/Grand Openings:

Before:

• Open for business before the grand opening to solve initial problems.
• Invite special guests.
• Determine who you'd like to have speak and notify them.
• Determine who you'd like to have cut the ribbon and notify them.
• Plan for any simple refreshments you'd like to have.
• Plan for photos.

During:

• Welcome the public and recognize all politicians, donors, board members, architect, builders, and library staff.
• Mention special functional features that will support convenient, efficient library service.
• Let a few speakers make brief remarks.
• Cut the ribbon and then move indoors for the program.
• Have children cut a ribbon opening the Children's area.
• Invite attendees for refreshments.

After:

• Thank special guests for attending.