Capitol Federal Invests in Lawrence Teens

Lawrence’s teenagers will read in increased comfort thanks to the generosity of the Capitol Federal Foundation. The Lawrence Public Library Foundation has received a $5,000 grant from Capitol Federal for new seating areas in its popular teen "Zone."

The improvements to the Zone are part of a larger library renovation project. Plans for the Zone call for doubling the size of the young adult area of the library, a new homework center with 12 computer workstations, casual seating areas, study tables, new shelving, and an improved sound barrier so that teens can be teens!

Since 1893, Capitol Federal has generously given back to the Kansas communities it serves. This tradition continues today with this wonderful investment in the young people of Lawrence.

"One of our most important goals is to make the library a safe and welcoming place for local teens, said Bruce Flanders, Library Director. "Through this wonderful partnership with the Capitol Federal Foundation, Lawrence's junior high and high school students soon will have a brand new area of the library in which to study, read and be with their friends."

Library Renovation

The number of people using the library is up -- way up. However, this increased usage has taken its toll on our building. The Library Board has created a plan to give a face lift to our well loved, but worn out community library.

The renovation plan calls for these five projects to be completed in 2009 and 2010:

* Business Center. An exciting new service at the Lawrence Public Library, the Business Center will provide information and assistance to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and those seeking investment, employment and career assistance.

* Computer Lab. The library will offer free classes in this 12 seat, state-of-the-art computer lab for those who want to improve their job skills or learn about new technology.

* Meeting Rooms. These treasured community gathering spaces are in need of a makeover, with new tables and chairs, upgraded technology and other basic improvements.

* Young Adult Expansion. The library's renovation plan calls for doubling the size of the teen area, adding more homework centers, casual seating, additional computers, and upgraded soundproofing.

* Children's Room Renovation. This busy section of the library will be spruced up with more computers, a new homework center, and expanded work spaces.

Would you consider making a tax deductible contribution to the Library Foundation to help make these important improvements to your public library? Donating online is fast and easy. Simply click on the button below.

Bill Self's Assists Foundation Awards Grant for "Self" Check Machines

You're out of line! That's the message from the Lawrence Public Library thanks to a $3,000 matching grant from Coach Bill Self's Assists Foundation for upgraded and new self check out machines at the library. The new equipment will speed customer service, making it easier for kids and adults to check out books, movies, music and other materials.

Bill Self knows first hand the difference that caring adults, adequate education and accessible athletic facilities make in the lives of young people. It is the desire to help improve the communities our young people live in that led him to create the Assists Foundation.

Like Assists, the Lawrence Public Library works to improve the quality of life for virtually every child in Lawrence through free access to books, educational programs and cultural opportunities. So on your next visit to the Lawrence Public Library, check out the new "Self" check machines – named in honor of Lawrence's favorite college basketball coach!

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Wal-Mart Promotes Early Literacy at the Lawrence Public Library

The Wal-Mart Foundation has awarded the Lawrence Public Library a $1,000 community grant to promote literacy and the love of stories for Lawrence's youngest readers. The funds will be used for story time puppets and flannel sets as well as two online children's library services. "One More Story" and "Tumblebooks" are Internet-based libraries that allow children to choose a book, see the illustrations, and have it read aloud to them. Both services are accessible through the Children's Department computers.

The importance of stories and sharing books with children is essential to building strong readers. Listening to stories leads children to love books The Lawrence Public Library is grateful to Wal-Mart for its support of the young readers of our community.