It was standing-room-only as more than 400 residents turned out for the long awaited grand opening of the newly expanded Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library on Sunday, May 15. After waiting in the large, open art gallery space, patrons were welcomed into the beautiful 237-seat Cultural Program Center. Many local government, education and civic leaders joined Library Board President Joseph Eisner, the Master of Ceremonies, in congratulating the library and the community on the completion of this major expansion.

Director Rhoda Orenstein added her thanks to residents and library staff, and then introduced the entertainment program: the delightful father/daughter singing duo, Jimmy and Michelle Moore. The Moores charmed the audience with something for everyone: tunes from such Broadway shows as West Side Story, Fiddler, and Phantom of the Opera with some Motown and concluded with a sing along of When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. The stadium seating provided a clear view of the stage for all.

At the reception immediately following the program, patrons enjoyed a beautiful assortment of fruit, cheese, vegetables and cookies from Cravings Fratelli Fine Italian Foods of Plainview. Residents also toured the expanded Family Center, admiring the spacious mezzanine and the beautiful murals by artist Stacey Krauser. The library is located at 999 Old Country Rd., Plainview, opposite the Morton Village Shopping Center (938-0077).