Ark Valley News - From the library

From the library
By Janice Sharp, director
Last Updated: November 23, 2016

Fundraising is ongoing

This week is Thanksgiving. We all have so much to be thankful for, both individually and the library. From my perspective as director, I'm so thankful for everyone who has donated money for the new community center that is finally coming to fruition.

We have been adding funds to the Building Fund for 20-plus years — through the memorial funds from many families, the fundraisers at Fall Festival and other events, to the funds transferred from the monies received from the City for property tax payments (we're allowed to save 10 percent of each payment).

Those funds had accumulated to about $635,000 until we started our major fundraising campaign June 1. We reach our $1M goal set by the City as the library portion of the new facility.

We have analyzed the size of the new library and would like to increase the size. Yes, many books are available as eBooks and on reading devices, but it's very evident that physical books will still be very much desired continuing into the future. Technology continues to require more space for patrons to utilize such items as a 3D printer in a maker-space.

If we are able to raise possibly another $100,000, we will be able to increase the library size to accommodate a staff workroom, public computer space and areas for reading and technology. "K" Club donations will continue to be accepted until the final plans are approved. The donors of $1,000 or more will receive bricks that can be inscribed in memory of family members or honoring someone special in your life.

Please consider making a donation or another donation to make YOUR library a focal point in the community. We have materials to satisfy any needs or we can borrow materials we do not own. We have programs for adults, teens and ‘tweens on a rotational basis throughout the year. We'll be able to provide more services when we have more space available. Help us make this a reality. Your donations are tax-deductible.

The library will be closed Nov. 24 through 26 so staff can enjoy Thanksgiving with families. Next week our story times resume, as well as other activities preparing for Christmas. Our high school book discussion group will meet on at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 1. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony sponsored by the Chamber will be at McLaughlin Park on Dec. 2. We will have kid's crafts from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each Saturday during December prior to Christmas. Hometown Holidays will be held Dec. 3.

The Community Center Design Committee met Nov. 22 to discuss the interior layout of the facility. The committee is striving to arrive at a consensus soon so the architects can move forward with the plans as indicated on the timeline. The current timeline shows groundbreaking to be in February or March 2017 and an occupancy estimated to be February 2018. The meetings held at City Hall are open to the public.

December is a fun but busy month. Families are scheduled to attend functions for children and parties for adults. Please remain home if you or your children are ill. If multiple staff members become ill, it may be necessary to close the library.

Upcoming events

Nov. 24-26 — Library closed for Thanksgiving

Dec. 1 — High school book discussion

Dec. 2 — Tree lighting at McLaughlin Park

Dec. 3 — Hometown Holidays

Dec. 3 — Kids' crafts

Dec. 6 — City Council

Dec. 10 — Kids crafts

Dec. 12 — Library board meeting

Dec. 13 — Community Design Committee meeting