By Rebecca Chaisson
Managing Editor
Eunice Public Library Children’s Programmer Jena Donaldson is having no problem “finding her joy” in celebration of National Library Week, which is being observed from April 19-25 this year. The commemoration highlights the valuable role libraries play in their local communities and recognizes library staff and volunteers for their dedicated service.
Aside from a full week of fun-filled activities themed “Find Your Joy,” Donaldson is looking forward to a $500,000 renovation project that will soon kick-off at the city’s book palace.
“I’m really excited about that,” she said of the remodel, “and I hope it’s done quickly so we can have a fresh face to our building and an open, welcoming space for our patrons to enjoy.”
The restoration is meant to mirror the building’s original architecture. In addition to a new roof, other improvements will be made, such as returning the siding to its original brick; removing the overhang and replacing it with a wraparound balcony; and adding windows to the upstairs.
Located on South Second Street, the project marks the library’s first renovation in over 55 years thanks to Louisiana House Speaker Phillip DeVillier, who secured state funds for the improvement.
The city only matches 25 percent of that funding.
Donaldson said the temporary closure of the library once the renovations start will be worth it, and she will be working with the city to find a way to continue implementing some of its programs during the closure.
City Mayor Scott Fontenot said they are looking into possibly occupying a space across the street at the Liberty Theater during the construction work.
“The Liberty has a retail area that can be used for a children’s section, computer room and faxes,” the mayor said. “The rest of the programs such as the scout meeting and story time will take place at Jean Lafitte National Park.”
Fontenot said a contract on the remodel is being signed this week, with a notice to proceed once it is officially signed.
“I would think that by at least July 1, they should have the project underway,” he summed up. “By the end of the year, we should have this project complete. Our library hasn’t had any major renovations in 55 years. This is progress!”
The Eunice Library offers quite a few successful programs to its patrons, including an “Open Mic” event, held on the last Saturday of each month from 2 -4 p.m. Visitors are invited to “share their talents with a supportive audience” over complimentary coffee and desserts.
A local Book Club, Page Turners Anonymous, meets on the last Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. to discuss their latest book choice.
Toddler story time is held weekly, every Wednesday at 10 a.m.
The Library Scout Meeting is held the first and third Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. and allows young participants to earn badges for reading different genres of books.
The Books and Hooks Crochet Club also meets every Thursday afternoon from 3:30-5:30 p.m. and is open to anyone, regardless of skill level.
Free Computer Basics Class is usually the last Thursday of each month, instructed by the leading experts at AirUltra. Open to anyone wanting to feel more confident using a computer.
The public is invited to swing by the City Library to check out all the programs they have to offer, then hopefully take home a few good books to read.