Yesterday, some folks asked me about the drawings we have displayed on the wall in the library. What are they? Is the plan okay with the City Council? When might it happen?

The answers were, an architectural rendering of what an expansion to the library might look like, yes, if the Gering Library Foundation can raise the funding, and hopefully before 2030.

Last night the Gering Public Library Foundation held their annual meeting, and President Suzanne Myers stopped by the library to chat about their plans.

Tell me about the library foundation, what is it, and what are they doing?

We organized the foundation in 2019, but lately our efforts have picked up. Currently we are under the umbrella of the Oregon Trail Community Foundation, and we have a 501(c)(3) status.

It’s been a busy and productive year highlighted by the campaign to raise funds for a major expansion and ADA improvements for the library. Recently we added four community members to the foundation board.

Board members and other community volunteers have divided into committees to support the endeavor. Committees seeking members include grants, publicity, and marketing & capital campaign. We would also welcome someone who is interested in maintaining our website. Contact Suzanne Myers if you are interested in joining our venture.

What are the drawbacks of the current library building?

It is very difficult for people to participate in activities held in the community room if they have mobility issues. The children’s section is also not accessible to all. Beyond that, there aren’t private areas for people to study or meet [someone asked about that just yesterday].

How many people use the community room in a given month?

Between library and private use, the Community Room is booked 17 times in January and used for everything from Tai Chi and art classes to Dungeons & Dragons. The library has a lot going on, and that room is an important place for community groups to meet as well as the many library events that take place there.

Are there other concerns, beyond the accessibility issue?

Privacy at the computers is difficult as well, for example if someone needs to be on the phone with a customer representative while also being on the computer. Everyone can hear private conversations like this.

Safety in public buildings is important, and staff can’t see patrons as they enter the library. The only way to address this safety issue is by reconfiguring the entry ways, which involves rethinking the building itself.

What are your first steps?

The foundation is working to create community awareness. We’ll be at craft sales and other community events, promoting the library and our mission.

We plan to have a presence at the Nebraska West Fest on March 21 at Papa Moon. This is a collaboration of craft beverage producers from five states- be watching for more information on this fun community activity. The foundation will have things to sell, including pretzel necklaces! Nebraska West Fest has selected the Gering Public Library Foundation to be the recipient of the proceeds of their event.

What avenues are you looking at for funding this project?

Certainly grants. The committee has identified many appropriate grants. The next step will be applying for them.

We are currently selling raffle tickets for a library/book themed quilt, it’s on display at the library, but you might find it at other community events as well. Tickets are $5 for six. You can purchase them at the library.

Keep watching – we have several other fundraisers and fun things are in the works, including a campaign kick-off event.

Beyond that, we encourage private donations. Several people have donated to the foundation through RMD (required minimum distributions). This involves the mandatory annual withdrawal from IRAs and other retirement plans. Donating through the RMD is a way to avoid tax penalties, and the money can go directly to the foundation, without being taxed.

Does the foundation have purposes beyond fundraising for the new space?

The foundation itself has been very supportive of library projects including serving as a pass-through for grants. This allows the library to apply for grants, and have more flexibility than going through the city.

Where can people go to find out more about the Gering Public Library Foundation?

Our website is: gplfoundation.org. You can also visit with any of our board members, me, Suzanne Myers, Bill Peters, Charles Lieske, Tom Swan, Krystal Holthus, Jay Skiles, Carol Enderle, Diane Downer, Peggy Fegler, Agnes Robinson, and Sarah Billingsley.

written by Sherry Preston