The Clearwater branch of the Great River Regional Library (GRRL) system once again has more to offer its patrons; this time it’s additional hours and a new book display unit.

 

Currently, Clearwater is the only library of the 32 branches in the system that isn’t open Mondays. Beginning Jan. 1 that will change, with the library offering Monday hours from 1 to 4 p.m. It’s the first time the library has had additional hours added since it opened in 2001.

 

Clearwater Librarian Cyrene Bastian explained the hours were chosen because of patron feedback and because the library wasn’t open between 1 and 3 p.m. any other day of the week. The additional three hours brings the library’s total open hours to 23.

 

GRRL added the additional hours due to Clearwater’s consistent, steady increase in business. Their circulation grew from 36,377 in 2015 to 36,457 in 2016; the growth has continued into 2017. This September ended with an increase of 33.4% and October with 43.5%.

 

“We’re really proud that we were able to provide this service to the community,” said Bastian.

 

Along with their new hours, the library recently received a new book display unit, donated by the Clearwater Area Friends of the Library (FOL) with support from the Clearwater Lions and Clearwater American Legion. 

 

The idea for the display unit was brought forward by FOL member Penny Leuthard during an FOL meeting and approved by Bastian. The organization had the piece specifically made to match the current book cases in the library. Wheels were added so it would be easy to move when needed. 

 

“Most people don’t realize that GRRL provides the materials, staff and computer access for the library and the community provides the rest,” said Bastian. Many of the additional items in the Clearwater Library were donated by the FOL.

 

The library is thankful for strong support from the local community, including the cities of Clearwater and Clear Lake, surrounding townships and the Lions and American Legion.

 

Along with donations and support from the FOL, GRRL holds a system-wide fundraiser each March; this year the name has been changed from High Five to Locally Grown. 

 

The Clearwater Area Friends of the Library meet the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and are always looking for new members and ideas. Their mission is to support programs, services and equipment at the Clearwater Library.

 

Beginning Jan. 1, the Clearwater Public Library’s hours will be Mon. 1 to 4 p.m., Tues. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m., Wed. 3 to 8 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fri. 3 to 6 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.