Campaign for a new public library enters

By Molly Richardson

its next phase

This is an exciting time for Bozeman and our library! We've begun the process of creating a beautiful new facility for the 21st century. The new library site on East Main Street will provide a lively addition to our historic downtown. And, we couldn't have done it without the support of this dedicated community.

Our present library, built 20 years ago, is bursting at the seams trying to accommodate demand for new materials and technology not envisioned at that time. Also, our service population has grown by 40 percent, and our library users are among the most active in the state, checking out books and other materials at twice the rate of comparable communities. Recognizing the need for an expanded public library, last June the citizens of Bozeman approved a $4 million bond.

Now the Bozeman Public Library Foundation will step forward to ask the community for an additional $4 million in private funds to match the bond dollars. In 1991, the foundation and the library formed a public-private partnership to expand library collections and programs beyond what is possible solely through public funding. Free services, such as children's programs, computer classes and special events have all been enhanced through your personal contributions to the Foundation.

Recently, at the request of Library Director Alice Meister, the foundation provided funds to evaluate the physical space needs of the library. Given all of the library's current requirements, as well as looking into the future, the evaluation recommended a facility double the present size. This evaluation will be used in the design of the new building. The foundation also financed many of the costs associated with the acquisition of the new site, which is large enough to support future expansion as it becomes necessary. Under the leadership of the Library Board of Trustees, selection of an architect and preparation of the old depot property is underway.

Embarking on a campaign to involve the whole community in building a 21st century library is now the task of the foundation. Beginning this spring our fund-raising effort will reach out to individuals, community leaders, businesses, service organizations, ranchers, kids, moms ...quot; everyone who will share our excitement.

As we go about creating a library that will be a centerpiece for our downtown and our community, there will be many ways for participation. Donations may be made now or pledged over a period of several years. There will be opportunities for designated gifts, such as naming meeting rooms or special services. The Bozeman Public Library Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt organization. All gifts are tax deductible and may be eligible for the Montana state tax credit.

The library needs strong support from everyone to make a successful move to a library that will meet the needs of the Bozeman community now and into the future. To keep up with the project please log on to the library Web site (http://www.bozemanlibrary.org/) and click on the link to New Building Project for a timeline, site map, notices of public meetings, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Molly Richardson is president of the Bozeman Public Library Foundation.

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