The Garland County Library is planning an expansion to meet the growing needs of Hot Springs and Garland County residents.
Since opening its doors at the present location on Malvern Avenue in 1995, GCL has grown tremendously, with over 10 million patron visits and 17.5 million items checked out. However, the current building can no longer accommodate the ever-expanding demand for library services and materials.
To address this challenge, GCL is seeking funding for a cost-effective and sustainable expansion. The plan involves constructing a 10,000-square-foot mezzanine level above the existing fiction and nonfiction areas. This approach will not only extend the life of the library for decades to come but also create much-needed space for innovative programming, new collections, and additional offices and meeting spaces.
"Our community has grown by 30,000 residents in the past three decades, and our library is simply bursting at the seams," said Adam Webb, executive director of the Garland County Library. "We're brimming with exciting new ideas, but we lack the space to bring them to life."
The new mezzanine will house a dedicated teen section, a STEM lab, a teaching kitchen, and more. Additionally, the entire building will be reorganized to improve efficiency and accessibility for all patrons.
While the library board has allocated funds for the expansion, additional support is crucial to realize the full potential of this project. GCL is seeking community support to fully fund this endeavor.
How you can help
There are many ways to support GCL+ and its expansion plans:
Make a one-time donation of any amount.
Set up a recurring monthly donation (as little as $5 per month, as much as you want).
Share GCL+ content on social media and spread the word.
Talk to your friends and family about the importance of the library and ways to support the Garland County Library.
Join the Friends of the Garland County Library, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit support organization that operates the Used Book Sale Room.
Shop the FOL's Used Book Sale Room located in the GCL's far right corner.
Utilize the library's services and offerings -- borrow free books, movies, games, and more; visit the bookmobile; use free library download and streaming services; or attend a library program.
Learn more about the exciting expansion project, view renderings of the future space, and donate at www.gclplus.com. For questions or comments, email [email protected].