Levant library gets funding, keeps pushing development

LEVANT – A committee has been working for about three years to develop a library that Levant could call its own.

The 635 square feet of usable space in the current building is too small, said committee member Dr. Donald Krause, but it will serve as a starting point for an ongoing project that will see the library grow and change with the times.

“We have big dreams,” he explained.

Those dreams took a King-sized-step forward as representatives of the future Levant Heritage Library announced last week that a $50,000 grant from Stephen and Tabitha King would be the foundation for a small but growing library with high ideals.

In addition to its collection of books, space for a reading area and computer with Internet access, the library will house the town’s historical society collection, now spread throughout the community. A specific room dedicated to Levant and Maine history is envisioned.

Libraries provide a sense of pride and town identity, especially for small towns that sometimes get lumped together as a suburb of a larger municipality, said Lynn Rogers, who serves on the library and historical society committees.

Supporters hope that a town library will enhance the town’s identity, providing a focal point for the community. Youths can use the library to complete term papers or study for classes, while adults who need help finding a job would have access to job searches, help with resumes or adult learning programs. Seniors would have resources available to help them keep active.

Last year, using much of their own money and some early donations, the library committee put a down payment on the small, blue building that once housed the U.S. Post Office. In what Krause described as “sweat equity,” supporters began working on the building, repainting it and putting up a community billboard outside.

The grant from the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation is only the start, covering the costs of the building, renovations and initial acquisitions, but not the operating costs.

The library should open in September 2004 in time for the Levant Old Home Days, with a capital fund-raising campaign expected to kick off at the Old Home Days this year.

Donations may be sent by check to Levant Heritage Library c/o John Chisholm, treasurer, 145 Tay Rd, Levant 04456.