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Fairfax County’s new Kingstowne Regional Library will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 11, bringing an expanded collection and a full day of activities to the Franconia Governmental Center at 7130 Silver Lake Blvd. in Alexandria.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be followed by storytime, games, performances, a scavenger hunt and a photo booth. Visitors can participate in the scavenger hunt, play games and sign up for library cards throughout the day.

Silly Shotz will operate a photo booth from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Princess Belle will lead a storytime and parade from noon to 2 p.m. The Lane Elementary School Choir will perform at 2 p.m., followed by the Hayfield High Honors Orchestra from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

The approximately 30,000-square-foot regional library replaces and expands the former Kingstowne Community Library. Staff moved 36,802 items from the previous location, while another 18,500 items were purchased for the larger branch. The new shelves now hold more than 55,000 items, including popular titles.

Preparing the collection and building took months of coordinated work. Library staff packed books and program supplies, while the Technical Operations division prepared new materials. Library IT moved technology into the facility from mid-February through early March. Computers, printers, Wi-Fi and copiers have since been installed, with furniture and materials arranged for opening day.

The library is part of a new combined facility spanning about 90,000 square feet, with structured parking and transit access. The building also contains the approximately 28,000-square-foot Franconia Police Station, the Franconia District Supervisor’s Office in about 4,200 square feet and the Franconia Museum near the lobby.

Other occupants include an approximately 7,200-square-foot Active Adult Center and a roughly 10,000-square-foot child care center serving children from infancy through pre-kindergarten.

Until the grand opening, patrons can use nearby branches, including Lorton, Martha Washington and Sherwood Regional libraries. Staff at any branch can help redirect holds, and materials may be picked up or returned at any Fairfax County Public Library location.

Cardholders also continue to have round-the-clock access to e-books, audiobooks and online databases through the library website. Anyone needing assistance can call 703-324-3100 or email WWWLIB@fairfaxcounty.gov.