Paris library holding fundraisers

SOUTH PARIS — The Paris Public Library has begun a campaign to raise $15,000 and install a central air conditioning system in the building. Many people found last summer's heat unbearable in the library, where temperatures regularly peaked in the 90s. The library's trustees solicited ideas and bids on solving the problem. The common recommendation was a "ductless split" system sufficient in size to effectively and efficiently cool the 5,000 square foot structure. To raise the money necessary, the library is holding several fundraisers, tailored to meet individuals' budgets.

For $1, donors may purchase a red "Be Cool" fan placard to personalize and hang in the library. Yellow fan placards will cost $5 and blue fan placards cost $10.

The library is also holding a raffle, with tickets costing $10 each. Among prizes will be a color Nook, an Adirondack chair, and a cherry Shaker end table. Donors may select which prizes they hope to win on their raffle entry.

The library will also be collecting bottles and cans to return for the deposits. Donations may be dropped in a box located inside the Soule addition entrance, or may be taken directly to Payne's Redemption Center, Paris Hill Road, South Paris, where return proceeds may be added to the library's account.

To "Beat the Heat," the library's goal is to raise the $15,000 by June 1.

General donations towards the air conditioning may also be sent directly to the library, located at 37 Market Sq., So. Paris, ME 04281, or may be made through the "Contribution" tab on the library's web page, www.paris.lib.me.us.

Over 5,000 people have accounts at the Paris Public Library, where loans from the collection have exceeded 100,000 in the past few years. The library also has over 15,000 sign-ins annually to use the public computers.

For more information, please contact the Paris Public Library by calling 743-6994, or e-mailing paris.public.library@MSLN.net.