Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library Awarded Rotary Grant
Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library Awarded $13,000 Rotary Grant to Enhance Accessibility
The Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library today announced it has received a generous grant of $13,000 from the St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Rotary Foundation. The funding is specifically designated for the installation of automatic door openers on the library's restrooms, marking a significant step in improving the building's overall accessibility.
The installation of the automatic door openers will address a critical need for many library patrons. As a public institution, the library serves a diverse population, including senior patrons, people with physical disabilities, individuals using walkers or wheelchairs, and parents navigating the library with strollers and small children.
"Heavy restroom doors can present a significant barrier for many in our community," said Paula Stakley, Library Director. "Manually opening these doors can be difficult, and in some cases, a complete deterrent to using our facilities. By providing automatic door openers, we will eliminate this barrier, fostering greater independence and dignity for our patrons."
The project directly aligns with the library’s recent strategic plan, which includes a dedicated focus area on improving accessibility across its services and facilities.
Ms. Stakley added, "This one-time project goes beyond simple convenience; it is a fundamental improvement to the accessibility of our building. We believe that a library's value is measured not just by its collection, but by its ability to serve all people equitably. This grant directly addresses a need within our community and aligns with our mission to provide resources and services that are available to everyone."
The library will begin the installation process in the coming months, anticipating that the new automatic doors will be operational early next year.
About the Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library
The St. Joseph / Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library is a public library located at 500 Market Street in St. Joseph, MI. Serving the residents of the City of Saint Joseph and St. Joseph Charter Township. The library maintains reciprocal borrowing agreements with most Berrien County libraries. We house approximately 100,000 items, including fiction, non-fiction, audio-visual materials, periodicals, and children's materials. We also maintain digital collections, a local history room, and computer labs, and we provide free educational programming and meeting room space to our community.
