Meanderings: Library just beginning
It can't be said too many times: Marion City Library is a gem for this community, this county, and Kansas.
Railroad depots used to be the sign of a town on the move. Then they became eyesores, signs of a town stuck in the past. The future lay in highways and aircraft. "Progressive" communities had their depots torn down. Others allowed them to decay slowly, or sold them for a few bucks. And some, like Herington, wanted their depots, but saw them torn down anyway.
Then, ever so slowly, depots started to make a comeback. It was in towns with a railroad history, like Abilene, or a savvy sense of tourism, like Lawrence, where the original depots were restored.
The potential seemed strong. Even at their most battered, the buildings were fundamentally sound. They had been built to withstand the vibration of heavily loaded trains.
Even cities got into the game. Restoring old train depots became the heart of downtown revitalization plans. Union Station in Kansas City, now constantly buzzing with activity, is closer to a temple than a depot.
Marion city leaders deserve a great deal of credit. They took back the depot when it didn't look like such a good idea, paid architects for the design, and maintained focus on the long-term goal. The city historical preservation committee helped promote the idea of depot-as-library, prepare the grant documents, and maintain interest. And the library board and staff worked tirelessly to raise $150,000 in matching funds for the grant. No one (including the library board and staff) thought they would do it. The goal was always "let's raise what we can."
Which is why the credit really goes to the community. Hundreds of people contributed financially. A few made contributions that are euphemistically called "significant." That means "big." But many people gave their equivalent of the widow's mite. Some identified memorial funds specifically for the building project. Others designated memorials for books to help fill the library.
Many of those contributors no longer live in Marion but their bond with the community remains strong.
Every community needs examples of success, causes around which they can rally. The depot/library has been a magnificent example.
Best of all, it's not an end — it's a beginning. A library is a jumping-off point for imagination, education, and improvement. It may end up that the best economic development tool this community has is the library.
— MATT NEWHOUSE
