Carolyn Habeck, director of the Hortonville Public Library, reports they’ve been a hub of activity since officially opening June 23 at their new location on 531 N. Nash St.
The library saw 4,627 visitors in the first three weeks.
“Their reaction is Wow! This is great … it’s beautiful,” said Habeck, who has been village librarian for over 30 years.
The modern design of the new library utilizes numerous windows allowing natural light to spill into every corner of the library. Increased space, abundant parking, and much safer access are three of the biggest improvements patrons have noticed.
Previously at the old library building parking was limited, and visitors had to cross either a blind alley, or Main Street (Highway 15) to get into the building on the corner of Main and Nash Streets.
“It was nice to be downtown, but it was scary at times knowing kids were crossing in such a busy traffic area,” reports Habeck.
The new library features a drive through pick up and drop off area, book return, and spacious parking lot, set away from the high traffic of downtown.
“People really love that they are able to park close by and walk in,” said Habeck.
In addition to added interior space and parking, the newly built Municipal Services Center and library has ample outdoor green space available. According to Habeck, this space will be utilized for outdoor programming next summer.
The first nine special programs held in the new library this summer had 893 participants.
“It’s been a very busy place,” said Habeck, with a smile. “We love it.”
Municipal Services Center grand opening and open house
The public is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Hortonville Municipal Services Center on Thursday, Sept. 4 at 11 a.m. Immediately following the ribbon cutting ceremony at approximately 11:45 a.m., a historical panoramic Village portrait will be taken of those attending in front of the new building. Food, entertainment and refreshments will be available. Tours of the building and an open house will follow that day until 6 p.m. An open house continues the following day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Library donation
Last Thursday, the Village board voted to accept a $10,000 donation from Wolf River Community Bank. The bank will donate $2,000 per year for five years towards the library children’s area. In return, the Village will place signage above the children’s area windows designating it, “Wolf River Community Bank Children’s Area.”