June 23, 2026 — Community members wishing to leave a lasting placemaking legacy in Bright’s Grove can now step up to donate to the Bright’s Grove Library Expansion Community Capital Campaign.
Members of the Bright’s Grove Library Committee (BGLC); City and County representatives; and major donors gathered at the Bright’s Grove Library today to celebrate not only the those who have already contributed to the project, but to also officially launch the community fundraising campaign for the expansion. Community members can now easily contribute to the effort to expand the library, creating a space for the community to learn, grow and gather for decades to come.
“The dream to see this project become a reality wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding financial support from individuals, organizations and foundations that came to us offering it before we even had the opportunity to ask. Their contributions have brought us 70 per cent of the way to finish line and now we’ll be calling on the entire community to show their support, take it the rest of the way and be a part of history,” said BGLC Chair Mark Moran.
Fundraising efforts are being spearheaded by the Committee and to date have generated $733,155 in commitments and contributions, with major donors including the Huron Grove Foundation ($340,000), the Sue Park Foundation ($100,000), and the Norman and Judith Alix Foundation ($100,000). During Tuesday’s campaign launch event, the BGLC joined representatives from the Bright’s Grove Optimist Club to announce a $50,000 donation from the organization, with a naming opportunity for the expansion’s children’s section.
The expansion project will include renovations to the existing 3,165-square-foot Faethorne House library building, alongside a 7,060-square-foot addition to the facility. The expanded space will see accessibility improved to the branch, with second floor gallery space moved to the first level, and the installation of an accessible lift. Other improvements include expanded community and library programming space; increased collection space; accessible washrooms; dedicated rooms for study and other activities; and improved operational spaces.
Donations for $10 to $14,999 can be made online, or in-person at City Hall. For donations $15,000 and above contact finance@sarnia.ca.
Donations of $2,500 or greater will be recognized on a permanent donor wall at the library, and naming opportunities are available for donations $15,000 or more.
For more information on the project, campaign and donations, visit www.sarnia.ca/BGLdonations.