Last week's announcement by the Pequot Lakes Library Board of its desire to purchase the Little Pine Plaza Building for use as a new, expanded facility has the board members scrambling to raise funds in a short amount of time.
"If we can gather funds, close on the property prior to July 1, and be using the building as a library by that time, we can save a huge amount of money on taxes," said John Longnecker, president of the library board. "This is extremely important to a library that raises all of its own funding!"
The requirement of use of the building will be satisfied by holding the library's annual Giant Book Sale at the location (on Old Highway 371 behind Lime Greenery) on Friday, July 3 and Sunday, July 5.
"We are able to make this happen thanks to the support of Ron Schaefer, original builder and owner of the building, who, after finding the building in foreclosure, now owns it again. His assistance has been vital in allowing us the opportunity to have an amazing space for the library," continued Longnecker. "We now need to find the money to cover the cost."
While Little Pine Plaza will become a city building, the library is responsible for raising the funds to purchase it. The money that needs to be raised, $200,000, must be accounted for prior to the closing on Monday, June 29.
"We have always known that some day we would need more space," said board member Claire Nagel, "so the library itself has managed to save $41,000 for that purpose. We have someone who has donated $10,000 to be matched by donations and we have two families who, if necessary, will each loan the library $25,000 at no interest. We're well on our way, but we do need additional financial help."
Donations large and small will be appreciated. Checks and funds can be dropped off at the library located in the city hall building, 4638 County Road 11. Call Nagel at 543-4391 or board member Nancy Adams 568-8110," said Longnecker.
