The new and long-awaited Pace Library, the fifth library in the Santa Rosa County Library System, will be open to the public beginning Friday, April 13 at 9 a.m. At this time, customers may begin checking out books and other materials at the new facility.

Linda Hendrix, County Library Director said, "The Pace community has waited a long time and the Friends of the Pace Library group has worked enthusiastically toward this day. We are all excited to finally see the day when the community can begin to benefit from this library."

During the opening weekend, the Friends of the Pace Library will sponsor games and events for the public, including various activities for children. These events will also kick off National Library Week, a celebration of the contributions of our nation's libraries, librarians and library workers, and promotion of library use and support. National Library Week is April 15 through 21.

Hours at Pace Library will be Monday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Up to 30 items my be checked out at one time per person. Loan periods are 21 days, and renewals and hold requests are available at the library, by telephone or using self-service at www.santarosa.fl.gov/libraries.

Those who don't yet have a Santa Rosa County Library card can apply for one online in advance of the opening at the web site above and have the option of either having the card mailed or picking it up from the library.

If you would like to learn more about the Santa Rosa County Library System, link to http://www.santarosa.fl.gov/libr aries. The Santa Rosa County Library System is a department of the Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners. Libraries are located in Gulf Breeze, Jay, Milton, and Navarre, and Pace.