Finally, It All Falls Into Place.

A little over a year of planning, organizing, calculating, adjusting, then waiting and we are finally at the finish line for this project (I only have the final report left to turn in!). I cannot tell you how excited I was to see the delivery truck this morning!

This project involved updating a few spaces in our library to facilitate access to resources and services. The major focus was to purchase equipment that would address the growing need for internet access. We wanted to provide spaces in our library that were comfortable, provided easy access to our free WiFi and would allow patrons to charge their own devices. After COVID restrictions started, we also realized these spaces would allow us to better social distance as well. Patrons, who want to use the internet, have multiple options now for where they can do that.

After figuring out what we wanted to accomplish, I ended up applying and receiving two Library Improvement Grants through the Nebraska Library Commission that provided the funding for 75% of these two projects. A huge thank you to city for providing the 25% local funds match that was required in order to get these grants.

“These projects are supported in part by the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services and granted by the Nebraska Library Commission.”

A bit of a breakdown of our total project: Grant one allowed us to purchase four new computer monitors and a smart TV…that I am hoping I will be able to use this afternoon to Striv our lady Trojans playing volleyball! Stop by around 4pm and join me if you can!

Grant two allowed for us to purchase new furniture and charging pods to create two separate media stations.

One media station is east of the current patron computer station, that provides two overstuffed chairs, ottomans, a side table and a charging pod. We did also include updating the patron computer chairs. The computer chairs that were there, we are now using in the office to replace our broken ones.

And the other media station is in the area over by the Young Adult books. This station includes a loveseat, coffee table, two over stuffed chairs, an ottoman, side tables and two charging pods.

I have arranged everything in its new home, with a bit of added decoration, some we had already and some I picked up at the General Store this morning. I cannot promise that I will keep it all exactly as picture but I think it is as we wanted.

A special thank you to our library board and staff! I have an amazing team that have all helped this project fall into place.