UPDATE: OKEMOS - The Friends of the Okemos Library kicked off fundraising efforts Thursday in an effort to renovate the library.

Betsy Hull, Head Librarian said, "Part of the plan is to create more quiet study space here in the library, provide more tables and that is something that we are not able to provide for right now."

The renovations will not be expanding but making better use of the space they already have.

Currently, a huge area of the space is being used as a staff workroom, but the renovation plans to reconfigure 2,100 feet of this space into room the public can use.

The transformation includes adding a quiet reading room, upgraded electrical outlets, a foreign language area, more space for youth and teens, improved restrooms, and the children's area will be moved to the front of the building.

"This will make it easy, more in and out for parents," said Hull.

The entrance will also be moved to the west side of the building, if fundraising efforts are successful.

The township board was in attendance because they have pledged to contribute two dollars for every one dollar donated by the community.

That is if the community raises $100,000 dollars by March 31st.

Julie Brixie, Treasurer of Meridian Township said, "We're excited about the prospect of putting public dollars in it and also getting private dollars raised to go towards this great idea."

Milton Scales, Meridian Township Trustee said, "We are eagerly out in the community trying to raise the other $100,000 dollars necessary."

The project totals $300,000 dollars and if raised construction will begin around late summer in 2013.

If you would like to donate you can send a check to: The Friends of the Okemos Library, 4321 Okemos Road, Okemos MI 48864.

ORIGINAL STORY: OKEMOS - The Okemos library is asking for help. Find out why Monday on Meridian Magazine.