Maple Rapids Public Library

The Laingsburg Public Library serves as a vital community resource in Laingsburg, MI, offering a wide range of library materials and virtual resources accessible anytime and anywhere. With support from local organizations such as the Laingsburg Lions and The Friends of the Library, the library enhances learning and research opportunities for its patrons. In addition to its extensive catalog, the library hosts regular events and activities, including story time sessions for children. It also provides access to valuable research tools, ensuring that residents have the resources they need for both education and enjoyment. Generated from the website

The Sunfield District Library is a beloved community hub in Sunfield, MI, offering a wide range of entertainment, educational, and technological services. With a reputation for its friendly staff and extensive selection, visitors can explore the library's online catalog, access eShelf research resources, and participate in various programs and events. As a main branch of the Sunfield District Library, it provides full-text journals, magazines, and newspapers, catering to the diverse informational needs of its patrons. Supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the library serves as a valuable resource for both work and leisure.Generated from the website

Answer: We have known for some time that our current facility is too small. The, insufficient space for programming and technology, inadequate storage, and the lack of staff work space are just some symptoms of our need to grow. With a population of approximately 8, 000 people, our building should be approximately 8, 700 square feet, according to industry standards and comparisons to other libraries serving similar populations. The current building is 3, 200 square feet. Projecting the population growth over the next 20 years, the building should be approximately 9, 900 square feet. This indicates that the current building is only approximately one third of the size that it should be. Initially, we are going to build a 7, 200 square foot building that we can be expanded to meet future needs.Question: Why does a new library have to be built? Couldn't an addition be built on to the current library?Answer: Cracked walls and broken cement blocks undermine the structural integrity of the current building, especially when considering expansion. In addition, the library is located in a flood plain, which accounts for the nearly two feet of water that damaged the building in 1986. A new facility, by code, would have to be built at the 100-year flood plain level, effectively eliminating future flooding concerns. Adding on to the current building with the structural problems that it currently has could lead to a continual repair project.