Doug Larson, architect, DLA Architects, Minot, is finalizing the plans for the Heart of America Library’s elevator. The elevator project has been in the planning stages for two or three years.

“We have the outline of the elevator taped on the floor,” said Toni Stevenson, interim librarian. “People can now see where it will be located.”

The next step is for the architect to submit the plans to the USDA. Earlier, the USDA approved a loan not to exceed $99,000 and a grant not to exceed $39,000 for the Rugby library elevator project. These are contingent upon the plans being approved by the USDA.

Bid letting for the elevator project is expected to take place soon after the approval is received.

“Doug Larson has assured us that the project will take 3 months to complete,” said Stevenson.

“We are excited,” adds Stevenson. “We have gone this next step and things are beginning to fall into place.”

The elevator is expected to cost more than $180,000. This will be paid with contributions, grants, and a loan.

Other exciting news for the library is that they are working on a website which will soon be up and running. When it is, library patrons will be able to check out e-books and audio books online. Roughly, 5,000 e-books and audio books will be available.

Stevenson said she will be going to Bismarck for training in mid-April and will come back and train the staff.

None of this could be done, if it were not for the generosity of Rugby and its surrounding area.

The library board and the community have thus far raised $30,000 toward the elevator project. Anyone who hasn’t had an opportunity to donate to this community project can drop off donations at the library or mail them to: Heart of America Library, 201 3rd St. SW, Rugby, ND 58368.

The board continues to pursue grant possibilities as they come up.

The library board plans to hold a book sale in conjunction with the City-Wide Rummage Sale on Saturday, May 12. Residents have donated many newer books for this sale so there will be a large selection.

The library conducted a Limerick writing contest for March. The public is invited to come into the library and vote for their favorite Limerick. The limericks are on display at the library.

The summer reading program for children who have finished first grade through the sixth grade is in the planning stages and will be implemented in June and part of July.