VERO BEACH -- The students at Gifford Youth Achievement Center have been missing their visits to the Gifford Library since it was closed due to damage suffered from Hurricane Irma.
Rain from Irma inundated the roof of the GYAC and both the gymnasium and library suffered water damage. All of the books, magazines, computers and other materials in the library had to be removed to avoid permanent damage.
As repairs to the roof, walls and ceiling were made, there was a debate on whether to reopen the small library branch at all. Since donors had put so much money and effort originally into creating the branch county commissioners agreed to keep it open.
Students love their little library, which opened in 2001, and residents also take advantage of dropping their books off at a convenient spot even if they checked them out at other branches or had something couriered over from elsewhere.
After a four and-a half month closure, the Gifford Library held a grand re-opening on Jan. 18. Guests enjoyed cookies and punch as children received goody bags, colored drawings and bookmarks; browsed for books, and heard a story by Miss Patti.
There were lots of smiles and laughter as even county administrator Jason Brown and school board member Tiffany Justice sat on the new carpet with the children and participated in the animated story time.
In addition to the previous books geared towards children, the Gifford Library contains more offerings for residents of all ages. It also has a computer room allowing for internet data searches, word processing, printing and copying.
Director of Public Relations and Facilities Operation Freddie Woolfork and GYAC staff also planted new flowers and palm trees while updating signage and the pathway to make it more appealing to visitors.
The Gifford Library is located at the north entrance behind the Gifford Youth Achievement Center next to the Gifford Community Center at 4975 43rd Avenue. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
More information is coming for Story Time and activity schedule. Call 772-794-1005 ext 242 for more information.