ELLINWOOD — One of the questions we’ve been asked the most this summer is, “When will the library be back at the Middle School/High School?” If we had earned a dollar every time someone asked, we’d have quite a fundraising account!

Since relocating to the Ellinwood Grade School on May 26, our library has experienced quite a few changes. While many of our most-used materials made the move with us, other books, resources, and equipment have been carefully packed into a classroom until the project is complete.

The good news is that the HVAC renovation remains on schedule. As part of the project, sections of the ceilings were removed so crews could install an entirely new ductwork system. Additional openings were also created throughout the building to accommodate the new ventilation. Once construction is finished, a professional cleaning crew will thoroughly clean the library and surrounding areas before we move back in.

As we prepare for students to return this fall, the Ellinwood Grade School Library will be closed on Thursday, Aug. 6 to allow the janitorial staff time to clean the carpets and complete the final cleaning needed before the start of the school year.

We have been incredibly grateful to the staff and administration at the Ellinwood Grade School for welcoming us into their building this summer. Their generosity has allowed us to continue serving our community with minimal interruption. While we’ve appreciated their hospitality, we are certainly looking forward to returning to our home at the Ellinwood Middle/High School in the coming weeks.

This year also marks an important chapter in our library’s history. The Ellinwood School/Community Library first welcomed the community during its Open House on Nov. 10, 1968. For nearly 58 years, the library has been a place for learning, discovery, and community connection. These building improvements are an investment in ensuring that the library continues serving generations of students and patrons for many years to come.

With the first day of school quickly approaching on Aug. 20, we are excited to welcome students back for another school year in a refreshed and improved library space.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our library patrons for their patience, flexibility, and continued support throughout this transition. Your encouragement has meant so much to our staff, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back home to the Ellinwood School/Community Library soon!

Heather Dombroski is the Programming Manager for the Ellinwood School and Community Libraries. She can be reached by email at hdombroski@usd355.org.