Library project needs $3000 to reach goal years ago
Marion City Library needs $3,000 to reach its $150,000 goal, officials reported Friday.
"We're almost there," said Janet Marler, librarian.
A state and federal grant is covering most of the cost for renovation of the former Santa Fe depot into a library. The city had to come up with $150,000 in matching funds.
The money has been raised through fund-raisers, donations, and smaller grants. The city will fund the remaining amount, but library officials hope the public will come through for the few thousand dollars remaining.
"Even if we reach our target, there are furnishings and other needs," Marler said. "Any money in addition to the $150,000 will go to this project."
About 750 memorial bricks were purchased. They will be installed in May as part of the construction. No more bricks will be ordered.
Plaques honoring donors will be installed in July. About 130 have been received so far. Donations that will be listed on this plaque must be received by June 1.
Most of the interior construction work at the depot is completed, Marler said. The exterior is being cleaned and repaired now, with furnishings to follow. Landscaping should begin this month. The project is scheduled for completion in June.
A dedication ceremony is planned for July 14. The public will be asked to help move books and other materials sometime in June, depending on when construction crews move out, Marler said.
A book sale is planned for April 19 and 20 at the current library, part of the city building.
Marler noted that the new library will have extended hours, opening at 10 a.m. weekday mornings instead of noon.
"We know there are people who are interested in morning hours, and we wanted to accommodate them," she said.
