Library Director Mary Catherine Hopkins remembered the late Nancy Rhue as past president of the friends, who, in 2004, helped dedicate the library’s first-phase expansion.

“It has been a long nine years and a lot of sweat and tears,” said Hopkins.

After the first phase was completed, former Sussex County Administrator Bob Stickels challenged library supporters to raise $15,000. From 2004 to 2009, Friends of the Milton Library raised $400,000, which was matched by the state.

“I’m lucky to have this district,” said Sussex County Councilwoman Joan Deaver, who was joined by Sussex County Administrator Dave Baker at the dedication ceremony.

Downstairs in the Children’s Corner, Snippy Doodles and Tiddle, a clown duo, read to children, twisted balloons into animals and painted children’s faces.

Upstairs, local child-and-teenager book author Tony Varrato signed copies of “Fakie” and “Outrage,” both of which won the American Library Association 2009 Quick Picks for Reluctant Adult Readers.

A partition in the large second-floor conference room can be used to accommodate two groups simultaneously, each with its own projector and screens, said library friend Pat Millman. The conference room overlooks Milton Memorial Park with huge windows where, outside below, local children enjoyed rides on the miniature train Milton Clipper, hosted by the Milton Lions Club.

Millman said the town’s Neighborhood Watch and Cub Scouts already meet in the conference room. Two smaller studios, called training rooms, offer private spaces for smaller groups.

The library’s first-floor gift shop sells books and Milton memorabilia and was integral to raising funds for the library’s completion, said Millman. “This building is for the use of the whole community.”