By Kris Leonhardt

Editor

MARSHFIELD — The bidding process for the improved facilities of the Colby Public Library (CPL) is scheduled to open March 16 at 2 p.m. General contractor specifications are available through Cedar Corporation out of Menomonie, and the Colby City Council will choose a contractor by April 4.

The $2.2 million project includes demolition and removal of the former Colby School District center on County Highway N, site preparation, utilities, as well as the facility’s construction. Demolition is planned to occur as soon as weather conditions permit.

The CPL presently resides in the remodeled portion of the Colby City Hall that once served as the city’s fire station. The 2,400-square-foot portion of the 64-year-old building has become inadequate, and the Colby Public Library Building Committee is requesting a new facility.

Organizers are currently in the midst of their fundraising for the CPL project.

“The capital campaign was extended into 2017 to allow businesses and individuals to complete pledges over a two-year time period as several requested,” said CPL Director Vicky Calmes. “(We have) $200,000 in the bank of the $400,000, but several more pledges make me confident that we will reach the goal. The other funds for the $2.2 million building will be the donation from anonymous donors of $800,000, Community Development Block Grant of $500,000, and city of Colby $500,000.

“To date over 125 acknowledgements will be on the Library Giving Tree in the vestibule. Donations are still welcome for the building and for furnishings. Donation acknowledgements on the tree begin at $200 to allow everyone to be able to contribute.”

Groundbreaking on the project is planned for May, at which time the name of the new library will be unveiled.