New endowment supports Cascade Library
Relatives of a Cascade Public Library leader have established an endowment with the Jones County Community Foundation to benefit the Cascade Public Library.
The endowment, established by Peter C. and Nancy L. Grenier of Grenier Law Group in Washington, D.C., will provide an annual payout that will utilized for ongoing support, sustaining the library and its greatest needs.
“Our existing library is 52 years old, and it is challenging to meet the needs of the community from within its walls,” says Monica Recker, library board secretary and mother of Nancy Grenier. “Nancy believes that ‘Reading Opens Doors.’ Peter and Nancy hope their kick-off donation spurs others to become involved in the process of re-imagining the Cascade Library.”
Recker’s service on the library board over the past six years sparked her son-in-law’s interest in the project, which is still in the planning phase. The vision for the new library includes:
- Adequate space for a robust collection
- Technology updates, including a 3-D printer and laser cutter
- The ability to expand and accommodate change in the future
- A space for the community to gather
- An inviting, welcoming atmosphere for people of all ages, especially teens and preteens who lack dedicated space in the current library
- A centralized location easily accessible on foot
- A reflection of the Cascade’s Community Heart & Soul® values
The library’s mission is to enrich lives by providing resources, programs, education and entertainment for the entire community. Recent programming for children includes a 10-week summer reading program, a steel drum demonstration, a magic show and more. The library partners with other organizations and local businesses to provide space for its programming, such as a recent presentation on Prohibition held at the Corner Taproom, a lecture on Edgar Allen Poe held at Two Gingers’, and a history of aprons at River Bend Retirement Community.
To make a gift to the fund, visit dbqfoundation.org/cascadelibrary. Gifts of $50 or more are eligible for the generous Endow Iowa 25% state tax credit.
To learn more about how the Community Foundation can assist you in supporting quality of life in your community, contact Amy Manternach at amy@dbqfoundation.org or 5630-588-2700.