Decatur's library receives GIF grant

DECATUR -- The Arkansas State Library has awarded a $6,967 grant to Iva Jane Peek Public Library in Decatur for heating and air conditioning. The grant was made available by general improvement funds designated in the 89th General Assembly of the Arkansas Legislature.

The state GIF non-matching grant will assist in replacing a 19-year-old heating and air system, four old large computer monitors, and installing a fan above a work area. Although the original grant application was for $14,809 and included replacing worn computer chairs and couch, the Library Board of Trustees is very appreciative of the grant that was approved. The library patrons will certainly appreciate the cool comfort in the upcoming summer months. Local residents can also make monetary contributions to the library to assist in other needed improvements.

The Arkansas State Library Board voted at a special meeting April 11 to distribute $141,000 in GIF funds to Arkansas public libraries. The State Library received 72 grant applications requesting almost $1 million.

"The board had to make some difficult decisions to determine the best distribution of limited funds," George Ellis, Library Board Chair, stated. "The process opened my eyes as to how much funding local libraries need to maintain their facilities and provide services for patrons."

The Decatur library is open from 3:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday.

General News on 05/14/2014