SEPTEMBER BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
OSAWATOMIE PUBLIC LIBRARY
A library has served the community of Osawatomie since
1889, and though the locations have changed – the mission
to serve the community has remained the same.
As the needs of their patrons have evolved over the last 129 years,
so too have the library’s services to meet those needs. Where once
the library was primarily known for offering books and magazines, their patrons can now enjoy DVD’s, music, computers, history, programs and classes in addition to a huge variety of books in every genre.
In 2006, the Library Board created a vision to expand and enhance the existing library building to meet its changing role in Osawatomie. After creating an overall plan for what they wanted to see happen, the Board hired Elizabeth Trigg as the new Library Director to make that vision a reality. Plans were drawn up, contracts signed and a Community Development Block Grant Program was obtained.
Finally, in the summer of 2009, construction began on Phase 1 of the Library renovation. At this time, the Library was made ADA compliant including the installation of an elevator. This gave the library access to a once unusable basement, presenting them with an additional 3,600 square feet to work with. After completion, the Board immediately began plans and fundraising efforts to implement Phase 2, which would further increase the square footage of the library.
In June of 2016, the library was remembered in the will of former Osawatomie resident Franchelle Maxine Cliff. Ms. Cliff left a Memorial that allowed the library to invest in its current remodel. Thanks to her wonderful donation, the library was able to update the lights and electrical system and was also able to install a new alarm system. They have rearranged the books, painted rooms, created a Kansas Room and a small meeting room and have moved all of the children’s books to the lower level to allow for a more self- contained youth department.
Through the effort of many, Library services now include a fully automated on-line catalog, after school programs, summer reading programs, a video-conversion station (upcoming), 30,000 books, a microfiche machine, a 3-D Printer, educational and crafting classes, community partnerships and other opportunities that benefit their patrons.
The Library Staff includes Tanya Ashely (interlibrary loan), Tammy Lyons (social media consultant), Jan Lindsey (Circulation), Shay Hanysak (Children’s Programing), Amanda Murphy (Adult Programing) and Director Elizabeth Trigg. They look forward to seeing you and will continue to make Osawatomie the wonderful place that we all love and enjoy!
Special for the Month:
The Osawatomie Public Library will be having a Ribbon Cutting and hosting a coffee at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11th at their facility (527 Brown Avenue). Please show your support by attending this coffee. This is a great way to get to know their phenomenal staff and a great way to visit with other businesses! Your support is appreciated!
