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Our  History

The Marianne Beck Memorial Library is Howey's pride and joy.  It began as an Eagle Scout project in 1985. 

Since then, the library has grown from a two (2) room space in a former carport and breeze-way of the Howey Police Department with standing-room only to a full-fledged library. With special thanks to private monetary donations from concerned citizens in our small community and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Library Initiative Grant Program, the Marianne Beck Memorial Library made a giant leap forward.  In only a few months time, the local citizens joined together to raise nearly $50,000 for the interior remodeling of a former convenience store purchased by the Town for use as the new library facility.  Remodeling plans swung into high gear when the Town was awarded four (4) public access computers, a server and laser printer through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Library Initiative Grant Program for public access computers.

 

in 2008, Howey became a member library in the Lake County Library system. Becoming a part of the system allowed us to update our computers and to loan our books and other items to patrons throughtout Lake County. We were able to expand many of our programs and reach a larger population.

 

In 2013 a 800 sq. foot addition was added.  We were able to expand our collection and add a books for donation area and a coffee corner as well as large counter, which can be used for many special activities.  The Friends of Library installed a patio and covered table inCentral Park behind the library.  Looking to the future we would like to add a community room.  The community room would allow us to host many private parties as well enlarge our facility for the use of library programs such as our home school day and workshops.

 

The library is staffed by Tara Hall, Director, and many wonderful volunteers.  Volunteers are a vital part of the library's daily existence as well as its future.    If you would like to join our team of volunteers, please complete the volunteer application and submit it to Tara Hall at the library.

 

 

Stop by and browse in our wonderful little hometown library!

 

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