In 2005 the librarians had a dream of expansion, as the current library building was lacking space to grow. Shelves were filled to capacity and programming had to be moved to other locations. So the quest for land to build began. The building across the street from the library, which was the former Swan Manor Nursing Home, was available. Options for the building were explored and the decision was made by the library board to demolish the building and construct a new library.

 

After many meetings with the architect firm of Pettijohn & Kinney, plans were finalized. Meyer Brothers Construction based out of Lee's Summit, Missouri was chosen as the contractors. Originally, the architects designed the round story hour room to be constructed like a metal grain bin, as we live in a farming community, but it was eventually changed to a tiled facade. In March of 2007 the groundbreaking began with the project being completed in October. The design of the building causes it to be one of the unique structures in La Cygne.

 

With the new building, more programming and services were provided to the community. One service that was added was in our geneaology department. Obituaries, deaths and marriages from the local newspaper have now been printed and compiled in notebooks to help those searching their family history. We currently have The La Cygne Journal indexed from 1870-1975 and The Linn County News from 1976-1983.

 

The library has a beautiful community room that can be rented out for events. Three of Don Luttons paintings are on display in the "Swan Room". Many events have been held in this room, birthday parties, graduation parties, meetings, and even a wedding and reception was held in the "Swan Room". Contact the library staff for rental details.

 

Also added in 2012 was a 6 by 6 Early Literacy Room which is housed in the former story hour room. In this room children from birth to 6 years of age are encouraged to work on early literacy skills with a parent. Several stations are set up in the room with activities based on a theme. The themes and activities rotate approximately every six weeks. The 6 by 6 room is open anytime the library is open. So come in and check it out.

 

Open September-May, Monday-Tuesday-Thursday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wednesday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; June-August, Monday-Tuesday-Thursday & Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wednesday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-12 p.m.