Willard Library to Undergo First Ever Expansion Project
By: Michael C. Fehn
Updated: December 10, 2012
For the first time in its history, Evansville's Willard Library is about to undergo some changes.
On Monday, library officials announced a capital campaign that will expand the historic library by 8,000 square feet, a project that will be led by Berry Plastics CEO, Jon Rich.
"With Willard Library and Berry Plastics being such close neighbors, the choice of Jon Rich to spearhead this campaign just seemed like a natural fit. Willard and Berry have worked together for years to improve the library park and the Division St/ First Ave/ Franklin Street corner of the Jacobsville Neighborhood, we consider Berry Plastics to be one of Evansville's finest corporate citizens and are excited to be working together in this historic undertaking. An expansion of Willard Library has never been done, this is truly a once-in-several lifetimes event and will enhance Willard Library as a destination", said library director, Greg Hager.
The expansion of the library's lower level will add space for archives, as well as an archives reading room, and a 160 seat gallery, which would be used for programs, exhibits and other gatherings.
The Capital Campaign Committee, with Rich at the helm, seek about $800,000 in corporate, foundation, and individual contributions, to help with the $2.4 million price tag. Construction could be complete in the Spring of 2014.
On Monday, library officials announced a capital campaign that will expand the historic library by 8,000 square feet, a project that will be led by Berry Plastics CEO, Jon Rich.
"With Willard Library and Berry Plastics being such close neighbors, the choice of Jon Rich to spearhead this campaign just seemed like a natural fit. Willard and Berry have worked together for years to improve the library park and the Division St/ First Ave/ Franklin Street corner of the Jacobsville Neighborhood, we consider Berry Plastics to be one of Evansville's finest corporate citizens and are excited to be working together in this historic undertaking. An expansion of Willard Library has never been done, this is truly a once-in-several lifetimes event and will enhance Willard Library as a destination", said library director, Greg Hager.
The expansion of the library's lower level will add space for archives, as well as an archives reading room, and a 160 seat gallery, which would be used for programs, exhibits and other gatherings.
The Capital Campaign Committee, with Rich at the helm, seek about $800,000 in corporate, foundation, and individual contributions, to help with the $2.4 million price tag. Construction could be complete in the Spring of 2014.
