The Gerber/Hart Library and Archives Board of Directors is inviting the community to an open house and discussion about the future of Gerber/Hart Library Thursday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m., 6500 N. Clark St., Chicago, its new home.
Gerber/Hart has been closed since May 2012 when it moved from its previous location.
Board President Brad Tucker said, "Building the new facility has been a long, difficult battle. I believe we have overcome the final obstacles and will be ready to open to the public in the very near future. The entire board is looking forward to showing off our hard work and re-introducing the community to Gerber/Hart, resuming our regular operations and continuing the cultural and educational programming we provide to the LGBT community"
Board member Carrie Barnett will speak briefly about the state of the organization and goals for 2014. Barnett said, "We're excited to enter this new chapter in the organization's history. One of our first goals is to bring the community back to the library, as patrons, volunteers and members. It's time to put the past behind us and we look forward to re-establishing Gerber/Hart as a resource for researchers and readers alike."
The meeting will include an opportunity to tour the new space and get a first look at the upgrades and improvements the board has made. The program will include introductions of board members and key volunteers and get input from the community on the services and programs Gerber/Hart will offer going forward. A question and answer session will follow.
Gerber/Hart Library and Archives was founded in 1981 to be a depository for the records of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender ( LGBT ) individuals and organizations, and for other resources bearing upon their lives and experiences in American society. Gerber/Hart Library and Archives has since grown into being the Midwest's largest LGBT circulating library with over 14,000 volumes, 800 periodical titles, and 100 archival collections.
The meeting is open to the public. Free parking is available at the building or take the CTA Bus 22. The library is wheel-chair accessible/ADA compliant. For more information on the event send an email to gerberhart@gmail.com or call 773-381-8030.