Flint Public Library is kicking off the final phase of fundraising for its $30.6 million transformation project with a public campaign, “Transform Our Treasure.”
The Library is seeking to raise the final $300,000 needed through this campaign. The Friends of Flint Public Library have pledged $50,000 to the work, and are challenging the community to join them in supporting this project. Every gift will be recognized on a digital donor wall in the renovated library.
“One of the things that’s unique about the library is that it’s the only building on the Cultural Center Campus that’s completely owned by the people of Flint,” says Kay Schwartz, library director.
“There’s a lot of pride of ownership in this library,” Schwartz added. :For that reason, we’re excited to invite everyone to engage in this work, at whatever level makes sense for them. Every gift gets us closer to our goal.”
There will be something for everyone in the renovated library. Significant changes include doubling the children’s learning space and the digital learning space. The renovated library will also have 66% more space for local history and genealogy, 15 meeting rooms and four classrooms. An additional 16,000 sq. ft. of space will be available to the public, and the building will be more accessible for people with limited mobility. The renovated building will provide the attractive, flexible and adaptable space the library needs to engage more people in
childhood literacy, digital learning and community.
Construction schedules were delayed for a few months by the initial wave of COVID-19, but the keys were officially handed over to Clark Construction on June 15, 2020. They began demolition immediately, and hope to complete the renovation by November 2021. The building will re-open in early spring of 2022, after the staff can move everything back in from the temporary Courtland Center location.
Gifts to the campaign can be made online at YourNewFPL.org, or by sending a check to 1026 E. Kearsley St. Flint MI 48503.
“We sincerely thank the community for its support thus far, and look forward to celebrating a fully-funded grand opening next spring!” Schwartz said.
About Flint Public Library: The library’s vision is to be Flint’s go-to place to learn for life, encouraging formal
and informal learning for all ages, in all mediums, for all of life. Learn more at www.fpl.info.
