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Bedford Library Reopens as Fundraising Efforts ContinueThe Bedford (Tex.) Public Library reopened its doors May 3, just over a month after it closed following a $2.6-million cut from its $24.8-million budget. Last month an anonymous donor gave the city $300,000 to reopen the library and other shuttered facilities.Patrons who gathered outside the library awaiting its reopening greeted the staff with bouquets of flowers and hugs, as well as donations for the Friends of the Bedford Public Library, the Dallas Morning News reported May 4. The newspaper noted, however, that the library would reopen with shortened operating hours and without some programs, such as the summer reading club, which has been taken over by a local church. The Morning News added that City Manager Chuck Barnett planned to meet May 16 with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, which is expected to consider revoking the library’s accreditation because of its closure and loss of services. The library could operate without accreditation but would be unable to take part in the state or regional library system. The Friends group raised just over $10,000 at an April 30 book sale and silent auction. Treasurer David Franklin said that the figure—“nearly twice that of our most optimistic estimates”—didn’t include a $1,000 pledge from TXU Corporation or a $2,500 pledge from Wells Fargo. He said some people attending the event made $100 and $200 donations, while others told volunteers to keep the change from $100 on a bag or two of books. However, Franklin noted, “The big story here is not the money raised or even the media coverage, but the overwhelming community support and neighbors working with neighbors to support the library.” In addition, an “I’m Backing Bedford” campaign has raised $26,875, including $7,594 earmarked for the library. Posted May 6, 2005. |
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