With the current Carbondale library providing cramped space for patrons, citizens have set out to raise funds for a larger facility.

By Sue Anderson

CARBONDALE, Kans. – The efforts to raise funds to build a new library in Carbondale recently received a big boost.  The Walter S. and Evan C. Jones Testamentary Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, has awarded a $100,000 grant to the “Let’s Raise the Roof for a New Library” campaign. The funds will be used exclusively to help with building costs for the new downtown facility.

Alice Smith, Carbondale Library director, was excited about the good news. “Receiving the grant from the Jones trust fund is a significant step to help us reach our goal of $1.6 million,” Smith said.

Smith pointed out the library’s current space of 425 square feet does not allow for efficient, effective, modern library services.

Kandy Hinck, who serves as chair of the steering committee, said the projected budget for constructing the new library includes foundation and government grants and private contributions from the community.

“On behalf of the ‘Let’s Raise the Roof’ steering committee, I would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the W.S. and E.C. Jones Testamentary Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee for its generosity,” Hinck said. “This gift brings us closer to the amount of funding needed for a much-needed larger library in Carbondale.”

Hinck said matching private donations are a requirement for some grants. She said the committee is also in the process of seeking a community development block grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce.

Courtesy photo.