Rockford Public Library Goes “Hog Wild” for New Branch
Fundraiser with the Rockford IceHogs benefits new East Branch Library
Library customers who are anxious to see the new East Branch open at 6685 East State Street can now help the library move closer to that goal while enjoying world-class hockey. The Rockford Public Library has announced a fundraiser to take place at the Rockford IceHogs game on Friday, November 21st at 7:05 p.m. as the IceHogs face the Peoria Rivermen at the MetroCentre. In addition to the hockey game, guests that evening will be treated to library-themed children’s entertainment around the MetroCentre concourse before and during the game. Four dollars from every discounted $13 or $16 ticket purchased through the library’s group sales will go towards the library’s East Branch campaign, “Rooted in Rockford.” Group sales tickets can be purchased at any RPL location, online through the library’s website at www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org or by calling (815) 847-6390.
“The library is a place for fun and entertainment, so we thought this would be a great way to raise money for our new Branch and show people what they can look forward to at the new location,” said Frank Novak, Executive Director of Rockford Public Library. “We felt this was something that everyone could participate in and be a part of. It’s not a formal dinner and no one has to wear a tie. We want you to bring the whole family for a great evening.”
The IceHogs Charitable Foundation is also supporting the initiative and is planning to contribute up to $5,000 to the new Branch Library.
“The Rockford IceHogs are excited to work with the Rockford Public Library as they seek new ways to provide more educational opportunities in the Rockford Community,” said Jim McIlroy, VP of Corporate Partnerships for the IceHogs. “To have strong and robust branches throughout the community is vital to the success of the library system.”
The library purchased the former Barnes & Noble building in February with City of Rockford alternate bonds and is now conducting a capital campaign to raise $1million to support renovations and upgrades. For more information about the Rooted in Rockford East Branch Capital Campaign and how you can contribute, visit www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/rootedinrockford.
About the Library
The Rockford Public Library, founded in 1872 as the second library in Illinois, currently has six facilities, including the Main Library and five Branch Libraries. The Rockford Public Library’s mission is to enhance community life and development by informing, educating, entertaining, and providing cultural enrichment to all people of all ages by collecting information to address the diverse interests of our dynamic community.
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