NEWTON, Kan. —According to Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, design work by HBM Architects continues for the new Newton Public Library building.
The campaign for the new building received a $50,000 gift announced on the library's blog August 31 from the Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., of Lebo, Kansas. This moves the campaign past the $2.4 million mark in total funds raised.
Lewis Humphreys was a farmer, rancher and World War II veteran. His trust was established years ago to help youth and to advance education.
The campaign's goal is to raise $2.7 million to help fund the construction of a new Newton Public Library.
The proposed new library will be built immediately adjacent to the existing library in Military Park, near downtown Newton. The City of Newton and Newton Public Library have committed funds to the project, with private donations needed to fund the balance.
Features of the new library will include updated children and teen areas, private study rooms, an additional youth meeting room, and a drive-through service window.
Those wishing to participate as a donor can contact library director Cari Cusick at [email protected], or 316-283-2890.
Completed construction plans are anticipated for presentation to the City Commission in November. The project will be put out for competitive bids in December/January, and construction will begin in 2023.