Ever since the Clearwater Library moved into its new, larger space in the Clearwater Shopping Center, one of Librarian Cyrene Bastian’s goals has been to get a bench to put by the front door to welcome patrons and provide a place for them to sit and rest while they wait for their rides.

 

“There’s lots of people who wait by the door for their ride,” said Bastian. “I used to bring a chair over to them so they wouldn’t have to stand.”

 

Not long ago, Clearwater Lions member Mary Abraham came into the library and asked Bastian if there was anything she needed for the library that the Lions could provide for her. Bastian immediately thought of the bench.

 

Abraham contacted Viking Log Furniture out of St. Joseph and described what Bastian was looking for. She also asked if they would be able to incorporate a sign that said, “Love to Read” with “Donated by the Clearwater Lions” underneath.

 

When the bench was completed and delivered, Abraham and Bastian were extremely pleased with it.

 

“I was so impressed by what he put together,” said Abraham.

 

“It’s exactly what I was looking for,” said Bastian. “It makes the front area look so homey.”

 

The rustic-looking log style bench is made of pine. The sign Abraham requested is carved in wood and incorporated into the backrest.

 

The Clearwater Lions are always looking for new members and ideas for community projects. To more information and to contact the organization, visit their website at clearwaterlionsmn.com.