The Friends of the Collierville Library have taken on the ambitious challenge of raising funds for an extensive library expansion in Collierville. The non-profit group has committed to collecting up to $4 million, approximately one-third of the $12 million projected cost necessary for a project that aims to upgrade and enlarge the current facilities.
The Friends of the Collierville Library, whom have been backing library initiatives for almost 75 years, are responding to the Town's call to enhance a vital cultural asset. According to a statement obtained by Collierville's official news release, the planned expansion centers on several key components including a renovated children's area, a versatile space for community events, an upgraded teen section, and new areas designated for adult learning and interaction.
Highlighting the critical nature of this undertaking, Lisa Plath, Library Director, detailed in the news announcement, "The current library falls below State of Tennessee standards of 0.5 square feet for capita. This expansion will help us not only meet, but exceed, state standards to better serve our community." This suggests the expansion is not merely aspirational but necessary to reach the benchmarks set forth by state guidelines.
In their quest to ensure the project's success, representatives from Friends of the Collierville Library are set to engage with local residents, Collierville-based businesses, and regional philanthropic entities. There are over 25 "naming opportunities", detailed in the news release, which span a range from $5,000 to $1,000,000, allowing donors to lend their names to what is being heralded as a worthy cause.
Julia Webley, President of the Collierville Friends of the Library conveyed her organization's commitment in a statement telling Collierville's news outlet, "The Friends are proud to continue their support of the library’s growth. We will make our best efforts to generate significant private donations to assist in this expansion."
