Glasgow City-County Library Receives Major Upgrades

*Editor's Note - This Article Has Been Updated

With record high temperatures these past few weeks, the Glasgow City-County Library is thankful for some much needed upgrades that occurred over the summer months. As a result of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, the building was able to get an upgraded HVAC/air conditioning system while their operating budget allowed the upgrade of their facade.

The HVAC/air conditioning system project started at the beginning of July, replacing the previous units that were in the building since at least the 1980s, according to library director Megan Haddix, though she admits the units could have been older than that. “They were certainly on their last leg!,” chuckled Haddix. This new system allows outside air to be brought into the building and circulated around which is not only healthier for the patrons but for the staff as well. “You can tell when you walk in how much more comfortable it is in the building and it’s certainly quieter than the previous system,” said Haddix.

Riddick Plumbing, Lee Riddick did the installation, and the project took about two weeks from start to finish, however there was a delay in getting the project started to begin with due to the delay of getting parts and increased costs. “We appreciate the patience of patrons and the contractors,” stressed Haddix.

“Now that this project is completed, you can tell a huge different. Special thank you to the Commissioners for approving us for the ARPA money,” expressed Haddix.

After a couple of years of talking about improving the library’s outside facade, the dream also became a reality this summer utilizing funds from the library’s operating budget. Haddix explained many years of birds making holes into the building for their nests, dings and dents as a result of bicycles being leaned against the building, instead of utilizing the bike racks, and age caused the need for the upgrade.

“Before these upgrades, over time we saw clear marks on the outside of the building caused by bicycle’s handle bars from when it was learned up against the building and years of bird holes that were made for their nests,” she explained. According to Haddix, the last upgrade was from the 1980s as well.

Local company Masonry Restoration patched all of the various holes, dings and dents and then the entire outside was repainted so the patch work couldn’t be seen. “It looks so fresh and new now!” exclaimed Haddix.

In addition to the upgrades, the railings and the bike rack were also repainted, making them look vibrant and new as well. With the recent upgrades to the facade, Haddix would like to remind the community to utilize those bike racks when riding to the library.

“I am happy with how both of these projects turned out!,” explained Haddix.

The Glasgow City-County Library is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They are located at 408 3rd Ave. S., Glasgow. Their phone number is 406-228-2731.