Why does the library need fundraisers?
The Wautoma Public Library receives funding primarily from the City of Wautoma and Waushara County. Operating costs, the fee for being part of the Winnefox Library System, most library collections, and staffing expenses are paid from that budget. Library programs, space updates, and other needs are primarily funded by donations, grants, fundraisers, or the Friends of the Wautoma Library.
Below are some special projects that we would love your help with!
Summer Library Program
Last year, 123 kids participated in the Summer Reading Challenge and collectively read for three months straight! Summer activities included the reading challenge, Community Helper Storytimes, Pet Rock Adoption, Crafternoons, live animals, a magician, a musician, and more! With over 1,270 in attendance, we loved seeing the joy on young readers’ faces when they came to the library for the various programs.
This year’s summer theme is Adventure Begins at the Wautoma Library! Kids and adults explore the world and their imaginations through more awesome programs and reading challenges. Opportunities for supporting this program will be available soon, but one great way everyone can support literacy in the community is to stop at our Brat Fry Fundraiser on Saturday, April 27!
A Quiet Space for Study and Work
Nearly every day, library staff receive requests for a small, private space to study, have a one-on-one meeting, or do a Zoom call. Other than our usually booked Meeting Room, there are no private spaces. To fill this need in our community, a wall will be constructed in the Southeast nook of the library with a large window and glass door, access to a TV for Zoom conference calls or slideshows, and acoustic panels. Our Booked for the Evening Fundraiser will benefit this project.
Main Street Mural Project
Have you ever driven down Main Street in Wautoma and thought, “what a beautiful little town”? If not, it’s probably because of the library’s south exterior wall. Boy, what an eye sore! But not for long! Muralist Kelly Meredith of Butternut, WI has painted on poly-metal panels a beautiful mural depicting nature and literature. Through a “book naming” campaign, a grant from the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, and generous community members, we have raised over $16,000! However, we are still $6,000 shy from the fundraising goal of $22,000 to pay for this mural project. Please, help us improve the Main Street aesthetics by donating directly to the project or by purchasing a commemorative brick.
Community Comfort Corner
Sometimes it’s hard to be a human. We have so many needs and not always enough time or resources to meet those needs. Thanks to a Thrivent Action Teams Grant, the Waushara Food Pantry, Wild Rose Family Dental, and generous patrons, we now have a comfort corner in the library. Anyone needing toothpaste, shampoo, toilet paper, or some other essential item, can discreetly get what they need from the Comfort Corner. Please consider contributing to the Comfort Corner if you are able.