Aaron removing wall shelving units

Over the next few months, the SJSHS Library will be getting a “refresh” made possible by a $20,000 Libraries Transform Grant from the South Central Kansas Library System. The grant, along with matching funds from the district, will be used to purchase tables and chairs on wheels to facilitate flexible seating arrangements. The library update project will also include new carpet and paint as well as expanded wall shelving that will eliminate three large freestanding bookcases and open up the library space.

The library received new carpet and paint after flooding in 2002 but otherwise has not been updated since being built in 1985.

The need for flexible furniture has been evident since the library began hosting monthly school board meetings a number of years ago. The large, heavy tables and chairs are not conducive to being rearranged, yet they are moved every month.  “A fixture update will enhance the space’s ability to host an increased number of events,” said principal Phil Bressler. “We foresee the space being used primarily by students, but also by adults in the form of meetings and planning sessions. The library reconfiguration and update will enable us to meet important needs.”

Library books will be packed into boxes the last week of school, and all books and furnishings will be moved out of the library as work is done to update the space over the summer.  Maintenance supervisor Aaron Hargrave has begun work to frame in and cover a window that looks into a storage area. Tall wall shelving will be added to this area to maximize space.

“The Libraries Transform Grant recognizes the importance of libraries not only to student learning, but to the whole community. Monthly school board meetings are held in our library, and adding tables and chairs on wheels will allow flexibility in holding a variety of events and activities in the space,” explained district librarian Amy Brownlee.

Brownlee spent several weeks preparing the detailed grant application last fall, submitted it in October, and was notified of the grant award in December. Library assistant Michelle Miller has provided support throughout the application and vendor selection process. “We look forward to sharing our new and improved space with the community once the project is completed,” Brownlee said.

With existing wall shelving removed, maintenance supervisor Aaron Hargrave is ready to begin framing in and covering this window looking into a storage area so tall bookshelves can be installed to maximize space.