Friends of the Urbana Regional Library (FURL) blog.
Have you noticed the new tables, chairs, benches, and bike rack at the front of the library?
FURL was a grateful recipient of the Frederick County Nonprofit Bounce Back Program in 2021. In accordance with the grant guidelines, FURL demonstrated a loss of income due to closures related to COVID-19, and we proposed a spending solution consistent with the goals and initiatives contained in the Livable Frederick guide - Frederick County’s dynamic approach to a vision-based comprehensive plan for the future.
Specifically, we proposed using FURL’s $10,000.00 grant on a front-building bike rack (to promote non-polluting transport) and benches, tables, and chairs (to promote community gathering out-of-doors). As required, our spending was complete by December 31, 2021, but due to COVID-related delays, we did not receive all of the equipment until the spring of 2022.
In early May 2022, FURL team members gathered and assembled the tables and benches, and they’ve been available for public use ever since. We appreciate FURL member Byron for making us aware of this grant, so that we all might benefit!
Bike over, grab a book, and have a seat in these newly created spaces!
Last year, FURL approved funding to update the new Teen Studio. The teen services librarians redesigned the upstairs nook to create a specific space for teenage patrons to hang out, do homework, and socialize. The Teen Studio now includes large colorful signage, new comfortable seating, televisions, and a gaming console.
