Library announces capital campaign open house

The Rhinelander District Library and the Rhinelander District Library Foundation are hosting a Capital Campaign Open House this Saturday, October 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the library, located at 106 North Stevens Street, Rhinelander.

“Saturday’s event will provide information about the library’s renovation and expansion, including design renderings of the new facility. We invite everyone in the community to stop in and learn more about the campaign. This is an opportunity for the community to ask questions and see all that the Library offers our community,” fundraising coordinator Kim Swisher said in a press release announcing the event.

Founded in 1897, the Rhinelander District Library has served our community for 127 years. The original Carnegie building is now 120 years old. Following the expansion completed in 1985, the library now occupies approximately 15,000 square feet.

“As the Rhinelander District Library (RDL) celebrates its 127th year of service to our community, we are reflecting on the Library’s history and how our services have grown to meet our community’s needs. We are also looking forward to ensure that the Library will be able to continue to provide the multitude of services that so many of us, our families, friends and neighbors rely upon,” said Virginia Roberts, director of the Rhinelander District Library.

Updates to the building’s structural support, interior layout, HVAC system, wiring and general maintenance have continued — but the original 1904 building and 1985 addition have otherwise remained unchanged.

“Today, the library is in need of significant updates and additional space,” the release states. “Over the past several years, library patrons have shared the need for an updated facility that provides safe and easy access to the building and restrooms, and additional space for work, study and community meetings.”

The library’s staff and Board of Trustees heard the community’s requests and embarked on the renovation and expansion project to allow the library to continue to meet the needs of our community. The renovation and expansion will add 7,650 square feet to the building, as well as address needed maintenance issues.

The Foundation began accepting donations in June, and has raised approximately $750,000.

Donations may be made securely online through the Foundation’s PayPal account at RDLFoundation.org. Checks may be sent to the Foundation at Post Office Box 1225, Rhinelander, WI 54501. Donations to the Capital Campaign will only be used to fund this renovation and expansion.

The Rhinelander District Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All gifts are tax-deductible as allowed by U.S. law.