Small Montgomery County Library Gets Multi-Million Dollar Makeover
By Brad Segall
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A little known community library in Montgomery County has been rejuvenated thanks to a multi-million dollar gift from philanthropists, who wanted to see the facility brought into the 21st century.
This is at a time when the future of libraries has been called into question.
Two years ago, Whitemarsh residents Nicholas and Athena Karabots offered more than $4 million to enlarge and update the Jeanes Memorial Library on Joshua Road. The two-story, 7,000 square foot addition includes a children's wing, something Nicholas Karabots says was a key part of what they wanted.
"How can we build out the children when they are very young to get an interest in the library and get an interest in computers and the electronic age as we are now."
Library board president Sydelle Zove says the generous gift turned a tired, quaint library into the 21st century building it is today.
"This is beautiful; this is wonderful. What a space (with) light filled rooms, plenty of space for community gatherings, groups of students who want to study together."
It's already begun to pay off with more people coming through the doors. The capital campaign is ongoing to help buy furniture and equipment.
