Local one-to-one match fundraising exceeds half way mark
By Margaret Arnold
Less than a month after the campaign for the Kimball Public Library was announced and the new library building plans were publicly presented, local task force members received the deadline and funding information they have been waiting for to apply for a competitive state grant program.
The Library Construction Grant program is now accepting applications. The state program provides public libraries with funding for construction, renovation and improvement projects that result in more accessible library facilities. Kimball is applying for a grant to construct a new library. Completed applications are due at 3:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26.
The 2018 Minnesota Legislature allocated a total of $1,000,000 to the program. In addition, approximately $400,000 of the allocation from the 2017 bonding bill is available to award as grants, for a total of $1,400,000.
Kimball is applying for a $400,000 grant from the state with the local community raising $400,000 locally for the one-to-one match for a total project cost of $800,000. To date more than $210,000 has been raised locally in cash and pledges towards the $400,000 local match. These funds include donations and pledges from individuals, families, businesses and local organizations, as well as a growing number of local organization fundraisers, including more recently the Kimball Area Friends of the Library and Kimball Lions Club. More information and updates will be shared over the next several weeks.
The Kimball Public Library Task Force was formed in 2017 to address the library space needs and requirements, and worked to develop a building and fundraising plan for a new 4,200 square-foot library at the corners of Spruce Avenue and Elm Street in downtown Kimball. Plans were publicly unveiled in July 2018. To see the plans or make a donation, go to www.kimball-library.org, or stop by the Kimball Area Public Library. Envelopes and forms can also be picked up at Harvest Bank. To contact the task force, email kimballlibrarybuildingtaskforce@gmail.com.