The Bella Vista Public Library gave citizens a chance to see a model of the planned expansion to the library on Sept. 6 and 7 at the Bella Vista Hay Days celebration. With input from many community sources, the plan for the expansion would more than double the current space available.

The current library was designed to serve a population of around 8,500 people, with few resources for families with children.

Now the population is over 27,000 and there are thousands of school children in the community.

The architect who designed the plan is Marlon Blackwell from Fayetteville. Blackwell is the recipient of many awards for his work both nationally and internationally. Nabholz Construction will be the construction manager.

The fundraising process has begun. It is currently in the “quiet phase,” where specific donors are being solicited. Many of these donors prefer that their names remain anonymous at this time.

With gifts and pledges of more than $1 million already secured, the campaign is well on its way tosuccess. Campaign leaders plan to approach several foundations, including the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation in Tulsa for a significant challenge grant.

Nationwide, even with the advent of eBooks, libraries have experienced a 32 percent increasein usage since 2000. The Bella Vista Library is no exception.

“This beautiful expanded library will make it possible for thelibrary to better serve the people of Bella Vista for many years,” said Susan Santos, chairwoman of the Library Board of Trustees.

Lifestyles, Pages 13 on 09/11/2013