by Brianne Anderson

Over ten years ago, the updated and expanded Ames Public Library opened its doors. It’s so hard to think that it’s already been over a decade! Those of us who have been here that whole time truly believe it’s only been a handful of years… we can’t possibly be that much older, right!?

Nevertheless, time continues to move forward and with over 330,000 visitors to APL every year, we are on constant lookout for ways we can keep our building and our space updated and fresh. This past January we got all new carpet, which made a huge impact in the look and feel of our spaces. In September, we completed a technology update in the Storytime Room in the youth area.

Our programming room has a sound system that allows us to use microphones in programs, so everyone can hear, play music, and show videos when needed. Technology in general updates frequently, but the room hadn’t been upgraded much since we opened in 2014. Earlier this year, the microphones and speakers ceased working.

When a project like this arises, we are so incredibly grateful for our community and the support you all show the Library through our Ames Public Library Friends Foundation. Because you financially support the Friends Foundation, we were able to make the needed technology updates in the Storytime Room. We installed a new sound system with speakers that can be heard throughout the entire space, new microphones for staff to use in programs, and a solid connection to Bluetooth so our music plays directly through the system as well. 

The quality of our storytimes and programs over the last month has been incredible, because we finally have dependable tool to ensure the stories and music can be heard through the sounds of laughing and playing. And it’s all thanks to those donors who gave to the Friends Foundation and trusted us to spend it on projects that help us provide exceptional service and programs. We cannot thank our donors enough for giving us the flexibility to tackle projects like this as they arise.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to supporting the library, whether financially or otherwise. If you are interested in learning more about the APL Friends Foundation, please visit their website (aplff.org), ask any staff person, or our new APLFF Development Director, Lucy Carlson, (development@aplff.org)  - we'd be happy to connect you!!