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Nesbitt Memorial Library has done it! NML is ready to “show and tell” at the Ribbon Cutting Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 16, 4-6 pm. Under the guidance of Susan Chandler, NML director for the past nine years, a strategic master plan was implemented to transform our Columbus public library from good to GREAT! Susan commented, “It took an entire village of caring and industrious individuals working together to make it happen!”
NML is a most unique library started by Miss Lee Nesbitt who saw the potential of a dynamic community library and historical archive. Years later, it’s still growing grand ideas. It’s a place to learn, discover, develop, and enjoy. It’s a place of “connection”. Robert Putman said, “People go to the library looking for information and find each other there.” Some look at NML as a “community center” adding positive, essential elements to life in a small town. These stunning improvements add opportunity and value to Columbus and Colorado County.
New moms connect at baby StoryTime. Teens connect in book discussions. Stronger reading skills started as a small child impact the entire K-12 grades to deliver higher performance and greater opportunities. Older adults discuss stimulating ideas in book clubs. Special interest programs educate and inspire new thinking and a chance to meet new friends. As literacy activities for all ages grow, so does the strength of our culture.
The City Council, Mayor and City Administration provided support and funding for some big-ticket items: the roof, fire alarm system, lawn sprinkler system, painting the interior and much of the new flooring. The Public Works Department helped with needed manpower. Susan shared, “Without the teamwork of the City, NML Foundation, Library Board and Friends of NML this renovation and added resources would not have been possible.” Donations from individuals, groups, trusts and foundations supplied additional funds to complete this stage of renewal.
A friendly and qualified staff of librarians, Jessica Commanda and Cody Graves help locate specific information. Eric Braden somehow managed to keep the facility fresh and clean through the construction dust and turmoil.
NML provides services people would have a hard time finding elsewhere. Free usage puts no limit on access to expensive, newly- released books, magazines, and newspapers from many sources. Technology fits beautifully in the total picture with free WiFi, 13 public computers for online data and two new early literacy game computers to enhance early tech skills. One-on-one or small group computer classes are offered at no charge. Simply sign up at the front desk. Ebooks, audio books, digital resources, movies, and educational CDs widen choices beyond traditional books.
Many people talk about NML as a “perfect” community space with descriptions such as “a quiet place for reading or study”, “a safe place to enjoy and spend time,” and “a great money- saver in having access to some of the newest expensive books and magazines”. Parents relate, “the Library makes learning fun for my kids.” Another commented, “the variety of programs offered has been especially welcomed during these cold months.” The recent landscape design program and purple martin program attracted a large group anxious to learn more.
Part of the new excitement is the completely new kitchen area in the meeting room where a “sense of community” is most evident. People can interact, socialize and learn new skills in meetings, discussions, events, entertainment, and a children’s craft hub. Thanks to a volunteer’s utmost determination, Tracey Wegenhoft successfully procured a grant from LCRA and matching funds from the NML Foundation and the Dumarese Trust. Along with Susan’s help, the new kitchen is ready for viewing and using! Kitchen cabinets in Newport Blue, white quartz countertops, and new “working” sink and appliances complete the happy picture.
In the Children’s Area a new collection of awesome children’s books appear as a result of a Texas Book Festival Grant and the Dumraese Trust Fund. Favorite activity parts of the children’s area is the puppet theater and lego table. For Open House festivities, a little playhouse will guarantee some new found fun.
The Teen and Young Adult areas house many favorites including the Manga graphic novels. Summer and Winter Reading Programs engage children, teens and even adults. NML coordinates with local & area schools with programs to improve reading and learning skills for children in Colorado County. Children’s after school discussion groups are popular. View more details about a huge list of on-going activities on the website: columbustexaslibrary.
net The NML Archives expansion is quite a “treasure” for a small town! Tours of the Archives will be an exciting reveal at the Open House. The Texas Room caches over 4000 Texas-related books some of which are rare. It’s especially popular with Texas history buffs, academic historians and authors needing uncommon reference materials.
A massive amount of promotion goes on at NML: love of reading, discovery of new information, enhanced literacy, and building community connections. Come to see the “new and improved” NML on Thursday, Feb. 16, 4-6. February is a great time to love your library!
