ELY – Construction workers set down there tools as Gov. Mark Dayton stepped inside the new Ely Public Library to look at its finishing stages on Wednesday. Dayton came for a short visit to dedicate the new library in front of a crowd of about 50 people on a warm, sunny afternoon.

“I congratulate the Ely community and the many local leaders who worked so hard to build this new facility,” he said.

Mayor Ross Petersen spoke first at the dedication ceremony, stating how important the new library is to the education of the Ely community, especially now that it is handicap accessible.

“I’m glad to say handicap people are no longer second class citizens when it comes to accessing public buildings in Ely,” said Petersen.

Dayton echoed Petersen’s sentiments, furthering expressing pride in the community for working together with the state to bring the building to life.

“I hope every time you walk by there or go in there, it’s a reminder of the contribution of your city and state,” said Dayton.

The $458,699 used on the construction of the building came from local government aid and the state library grant. The rest of the $1.3 million project needed for furnishing the inside came from the Ely Rotary Club, the Town of Morris and Friends of the Library, according to Library Director, Rachel Heinrich.

Dayton also showed appreciation for Ely citizens’ volunteer work in the library project.

So far, 80 people are signed up to help move books in the old library to the new building in the first week of November.

“That shows strong civic engagement,” said Dayton.

After his speech, the governor and Heinrich pulled the red cloth off the cornerstone of the library, revealing this year’s date etched in stone.

To get volunteer for the library, either transporting books or putting together new furniture, call the library at 365-5140.

Along with easy access, the library will provide computers, study rooms, books and space to read for the public and children.