Many public libraries around the country have been struggling to stay afloat. Just last year the Philadelphia Public Library announced it would be closing all of its branches and laying off 3,000 city employees before state legislators voted to keep the library system open. But in St. Louis, a recent $4 million gift to the city’s public library will help in the refurbishment of its main branch.
The funds, which were donated by technology company Emerson, are part of an effort to revitalize the city’s downtown region and bring the almost 100-year-old building into shape. David N. Farr, CEO and president of Emerson, said the donation isn’t just about refurbishing a building, but reviving the entire area – with the library at its center.
"A reinvigorated Central Library also will play an important role in the renaissance of downtown St. Louis," said Farr. "The success of this project is vital to the entire St. Louis region and we are pleased to be able to play a major role in making it a reality."
The donation will be part of a larger $20 million fundraising effort to help pay for the $74 million project which is slated to begin later this year. The library plans to double the amount of public space available in the building and hopes to have the grand re-opening of the main library in 2012.
If anything, the Central Library seems to be bucking trends at a time when many people seem to be ditching print for online publications. But, according to the library, they have seen a consistent rise in the amount of citizens taking advantage of the library. In just the last three years, circulation at the Central Library has increased 18 percent.
