Carthage to receive a brand new public library

CARTHAGE, Ill. (WGEM) - Library leaders and elected officials are celebrating the official announcement of a brand new library in the Tri-States.

They said the current Carthage library does not have enough space, has an old elevator and is just plain outdated.

Carthage Public Library Director Amy Gee said Wednesday the new library is possible because of the approval of a grant and the ability to match these funds.

“We had the opportunity for a building grant and so that was a little over half the costs. So for this same $1.2 million, or so, that we would be laying out to renovate the older building, we will be able to get a nice new building, all on one floor, designed to be a library,” Gee said.

The library will be located at the Carthage Veterinary Service campus.

Organizers said they hope to break ground in the Spring.

After that, they say it will take about 12 to 16 months to complete.

Gee said the library is accepting donations.

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