Florence library looking for repair money
Staff writer
Florence Public Library celebrated its centennial last month but crumbling bricks and mortar need work to preserve the 101-year-old structure’s bricks and mortar.
A Council Grove contractor estimated those repairs at $138,000.
The library board hopes to get part of the money through a Kansas Department of Commerce grant.
Grants, for communities with populations of less than 5,000 are to help revitalize communities’ quality of life.
A grant application submitted by Hillsboro city administrator Matt Stiles, sought $50,000 to help food stores in Peabody, Goessel, Tampa, and Hillsboro, and the Florence library. The grant would require a minimum of 10% matching funds.
If the library gets a share of the grant, it would pay only part of the $138,000 needed. The remainder would come from other sources, so the library is planning fund raisers.
“That’s what we’re working for,” board president Kathy Inlow said.
The board plans to apply for additional grants, as well.
Over the last three years, floors have been leveled, the roof has been repaired, new sidewalks have been poured, and a new front door has been installed.
Replacement of an original floor in the northeast corner that has collapsed into the basement, repair of ceiling damage from roof leaks, and restoration of the second floor are needed.