Public Services Director Karen Covey models GCL’s delivery tote bag.
By Erin Baber,
The Garland County Library (GCL) is planning an expansion to meet the growing needs of Hot Springs and Garland County residents.
Since opening its doors at the present location on Malvern Avenue in 1995, GCL has grown tremendously, with over 10 million patron visits and 17.5 million items checked out. However, the current building can no longer accommodate the ever-expanding demand for library services and materials.
GCL is seeking funding for a cost-effective and sustainable expansion to address this challenge. The plan involves constructing a 10,000-square-foot mezzanine level above the existing fiction and non-fiction areas. This approach will not only extend the life of the library for decades to come but also create much-needed space for innovative programming, new collections, and additional offices and meeting spaces.
“Our community has grown by 30,000 residents in the past three decades, and our library is simply bursting at the seams,” said Adam Webb, Executive Director of the Garland County Library. “We’re brimming with exciting new ideas, but we lack the space to bring them to life.”
The new mezzanine will house a dedicated teen section, a STEM lab, a teaching kitchen, and more. Additionally, the entire building will be reorganized to improve efficiency and accessibility for all patrons.
While the library board has allocated funds for the expansion, additional support is crucial to realize the full potential of this project. GCL is seeking community support to fund this endeavor fully.
The library board has allocated funds, but additional community support is crucial. Here’s how you can help:
- Donate online at www.gclplus.com
- Spread the word on social media
- Shop the Used Book Sale Room
- Attend a library program
- Visit www.gclplus.com to learn more!
Learn more about the exciting expansion project, view renderings of the future space, and donate at www.gclplus.com. For questions or comments, email gclplus@gclibrary.com.
Erin Baber is Library Marketing Manager at the Garland County Library.
