Library hosts open house and dedication ceremony
Times photo/Norene Prososki The Ozark County Volunteer Library showcased its recent physical improvements to the building and additions to its books and other offerings during an open house event held last week. The library’s front access was reworked and concrete was poured to make the landing easier to navigate, and handrails were also installed. The event also featured the unveiling of the new library mascot, Hootie the owl (pictured here) and the dedication of the John Harlin Memorial board room, located in the basement of the library.
Times photo/Norene Prososki Linda Harlin, left, stands with Ozark County Volunteer Library President Joanne Krupp at a dedication ceremony held last week when the library’s renovated board room was dedicated to the late John Harlin.
Times photo/Norene Prososki Ozark County Volunteer Library President Joanne Krupp, right, gives Linda Harlin a tour of the library’s children’s section, which includes books for children of all ages and a small table and chairs for young readers to enjoy. For adolescents and teens, the library’s junior section features several popular titles ready to be checked out.
At last Wednesday’s open house event, the Ozark County Volunteer Library welcomed community members with big smiles - showcasing the recent upgrades to the facility that have made the library more accessible, as well as the addition of new books and other materials that were purchased with an American Library Association grant.
In true community fashion, the library also celebrated a few local residents who have shaped the community and the library services over the last several years.
Improvements to building, services
A grant from the American Library Association’s Libraries Transforming Communities program has allowed the library to improve physical access to the building by re-grading the front access area, eliminating the large, uneven step-ups.
With a generous contribution made by an anonymous donor, the library installed new, safer railing to make access easier for its patrons. Contributions made in memory of Claire Neil Kelly paid for improvements to the front of the library, including painting the front door.
“We were also able to build a collection to serve neurodiverse library patrons, both adults and children. This includes a variety of books for children, teens and young adults, as well as educational material for parents and caregivers. Sensory aids are being made available for use by patrons in the library and are also available for check-out. We were also able to purchase resources for patrons with memory loss,” said library volunteer Aletta Moore.
Unveiling the library mascot
Those passing by the front of the library may notice a quirky new character located next to the library sidewalk.
Hootie the owl, the library’s new mascot, was unveiled at the open house event. The owl is dedicated in honor of the late Dr. Bob Main for his years of service to the community. Bob died Oct. 12 after serving the Gainesville community as veterinarian and owner of the Gainesville Veterinarian Clinic with wife Robin Deck from 1985 until their retirement in 2020.
In addition to his service in that role, Bob was involved in a number of community organizations and events, always happy to lend a hand where it was needed.
A celebration of life ceremony is being held in honor of Bob at The Center from 1 to 4 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 12. Everyone is invited to attend and share a “Dr. Bob story,” if they have one or to just come and remember him.
John Harlin Memorial Board Room
Another community member who was honored at the event was the late John Harlin in the dedication of the John Harlin Memorial Board Room, located in the basement of the library. John and his family have been supporters of the library for many years, and generous contributions were made to the library in his honor after his death March 15, 2023.
A dedication ceremony was held during the open house last week, and John’s wife Linda Harlin was granted the honor of cutting the ribbon to the newly renovated space.
The room features vibrant a blue hue on the walls, which contrast with crisp white crown molding and wainscoting. The space is decorated with a memorial plaque in honor of John, along with several framed photographs of him. A new dark wood-grain floor sets off the other colors of the room.
The board room is used for library events and is also available to rent to businesses or clubs for $25. The library offers the space for free for non-profit, children’s or various community groups. The library has three long white tables and several padded chairs that are also available for use by those using the board room.
Those who are interested in renting the board room can call Ozark County Volunteer Library President Joanne Krupp at 417-343-7667.
Art exhibit
The newest “Visiting Artists” exhibit was also newly displayed during the open house and is now displayed for all to view. Artist Jimmie Marler of Hartville has several works hanging on the library’s walls and down the staircase to the basement. See page A3 and A14 for photos of some of his work that is displayed and more information on the exhibit.
To find out more about the Visiting Artist program and how to participate, contact Lisa Atkinson at lisacatkinson@ gmail.com or call the Ozark County Volunteer Library at 417-679-4442.
Find out more
The library is open Mondays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.
The library is located at 200 Elm Street in Gainesville, across from the Gainesville post office.
For more information, follow the Ozark County Volunteer Library’s Facebook page or contact the library during open hours at 417-679-4442.