Rauchholz Memorial Library

The Swartz Creek-Perkins Library, established in 1982, serves as a vital community hub within Swartz Creek, MI, offering a diverse range of resources and services, including public computers, free WiFi, and a collection of DVDs and foreign language films. The library is dedicated to fostering literacy and learning through various programs, including reading challenges and early childhood literacy initiatives, while also providing access to local history and community resources. Supported by the Friends of the Library and community volunteers, the Swartz Creek-Perkins Library features an outdoor garden and hosts events that encourage community engagement and exploration. With a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the library plays an essential role in empowering individuals and families to succeed through its extensive materials and programs. Generated from the website

Thomas Township Library in Saginaw, MI, serves as a vibrant community hub, offering an array of programs and services for all ages. Patrons can explore a comprehensive online catalog featuring books, movies, music, and more through its participation in the MeLCat service. The library enhances community engagement with a variety of regular programming, including energetic storytimes for children and access to digital resources like the Libby app for ebooks and audiobooks. Additionally, library cardholders can enjoy free or discounted passes to numerous local attractions, parks, and recreation areas, fostering exploration and learning. Generated from the website

Answer: We have known for some time that our current facility is too small. The, insufficient space for programming and technology, inadequate storage, and the lack of staff work space are just some symptoms of our need to grow. With a population of approximately 8, 000 people, our building should be approximately 8, 700 square feet, according to industry standards and comparisons to other libraries serving similar populations. The current building is 3, 200 square feet. Projecting the population growth over the next 20 years, the building should be approximately 9, 900 square feet. This indicates that the current building is only approximately one third of the size that it should be. Initially, we are going to build a 7, 200 square foot building that we can be expanded to meet future needs.Question: Why does a new library have to be built? Couldn't an addition be built on to the current library?Answer: Cracked walls and broken cement blocks undermine the structural integrity of the current building, especially when considering expansion. In addition, the library is located in a flood plain, which accounts for the nearly two feet of water that damaged the building in 1986. A new facility, by code, would have to be built at the 100-year flood plain level, effectively eliminating future flooding concerns. Adding on to the current building with the structural problems that it currently has could lead to a continual repair project.