GRAVETTE -- A new Gravette public library, which has been in the wishing and planning stages for several years, has taken two giant steps toward reality, according to Kim Schneider, library director.
Word is that a grant in the amount of $250,000 from the Rural Development Authority and a $200,000 Economic Development Grant will push the library project very close to the half-way mark in reaching the needed $1-plus million goal.
These are not matching grants, Schneider said, but their actual delivery to Gravette hinges on the degree of enthusiasm and support shown by citizens, businesses and organizations, not just in Gravette, but from the area the present library serves.
Kim said she is working very hard to make contact with those who can and will support the project before she contacts the funding agencies who have the grants in waiting.
Gravette's 2,000-square-foot library has grown from a volunteer operation with donated books which was a Bicentennial project, to the professionally-staffed, up-to-date operation that provides computer access to citizens, hosts classes for anyone studying for their GED certificates, as well as many other community-benefiting services. Among those services are assisting in resume writing and job searches. It has an e-book check-out service, provides a tutoring service and an early learning station. Its children's library is a joy to visit and is computer equipped. Children's reading sessions are held and home schooling materials are also available.
Since Benton County is not a part of the state library system, the Gravette library has an inter-library agreement, not only with the state, but also with every library in the state, Schneider said.
The library serves a population base of almost 18,000 people and operates with a $191,025 annual budget. Among its 14 computers are two which are specially equipped for those with hearing and other impairments.
It is supported by the city and the Gravette Community Foundation, where donations directed for the library are tax exempt.
A modern facility has been designed by deMx Architecture and drawings are on display at the library. Included in the design is a multi-purpose community room. And the design will serve the community and entire area for many years as innovations in electronics and other technology advance. It will be located just south of the present library building which originally was the Gravette school lunchroom.
Ironically, the cement block building was constructed about 1950 when fire destroyed the previous building. Individuals, and students in particular, raised money by selling and buying cement blocks which were used in the present building.
"I'm working as hard as I can to achieve this community mission," Schneider said.
She said additional grants are being sought, including a grant from FEMA to fund a safe room in the facility.
"What room would you like to sponsor?" she asked.
She also emphasized that contributions of any size are welcomed to help with the community-benefiting project. All are tax deductible when funneled through the Gravette Community Foundation/Library Building Fund. You may call her at the library, 787-6955, or by cell phone, 787-8689.
"But please, within the next two weeks," Schneider asked.
"Remember," said one of the original volunteer organizers of the library almost 40 years ago, "A town without a library is a town without...."
General News on 05/28/2014