Recently many people in the community have gotten a first glimpse at what a renovated and expanded Powell Library could look like. 

The concept presented recently before Park County Commissioners and soon to be on display at the library is still a long ways from an accomplished goal, but it’s a big step in a lengthy process. It’s also a point of pride for the past and present library board members, staff and other community members who are pushing for the Powell Library to be able to better accommodate the needs of a growing community. 

If you have a chance, swing by the library Nov. 12 to see the plans during festivities that will also include a children’s carnival, games, treats, prizes, free food and an auction. Library board chair Pat Stuart said they want the community’s input on what is one of the most vital parts of a community. The library plan includes not just stacks of books, but public computers for use, opportunities to listen to music and rent movies, places to sit and relax, and even a meeting room that can be used by the community. 

The renovation proposal would add a two-story extension and double the amount of square feet inside. It includes an inviting entrance, with the fireplace moved to the entrance area. 

Cody’s library has a lot of these aspects and it’s important that Powell residents have those same opportunities in their local library. The renovation plans would make the building look more appealing from the outside as well and hopefully make it even more of a point of pride for residents. 

I know from personally seeing my two sons enjoy both the Cody and Powell libraries just how important of an institution it remains. You’ve rarely seen eyes light up the way my sons’ did when they received their library cards. All of a sudden, all of these books were just there, waiting to be read and explored. The engineering rendering showing a welcoming children’s area, with both oversized and child-sized entrances, epitomizes the importance of keeping children interested in reading. With all of the modern distractions, the library provides a place to get back to basics, to sit and read a book, a magazine or a newspaper, and to do it as part of a community that has made literature, history and learning a key component of their lives.