The Au Sable Forks Free Library received a generous $15,114 grant from the Charles R. Wood Foundation. The award contributes to a major construction grant from New York State for interior improvements scheduled during the year.
The Charles R. Wood Foundation grant made it possible for the library to install automatic doors which will further encourage all members of the community to visit their library. A remote door-opener switch operable from the circulation desk, switches at both interior door frames, and a switch mounted on a post outside of the library, are now in place.
Those who may have been hesitant due to mobility difficulties, those whose strength is compromised due to illness or other health issues, those whose body is not as strong as it once was, and those who juggle children, strollers, books, and other items in a mere two arms: All will now be able to enter the library easily.
The Au Sable Forks Library is committed to welcoming all individuals and is focused on serving the needs of our community.
“Whether these doors are used once a day, once a week, or once a month is irrelevant,” said library employee Alison Follos. “Libraries play an essential role in serving a wide variety of community needs and helping people reach a wide variety of individual goals. We never want someone to feel unsure about visiting their library because of their concerns about the building’s accessibility. These automatic doors are another step in our ongoing efforts to ensure that everyone feels welcome in the library. Our doors are open to all.”
