The Forreston Public Library and Bertolet Memorial Library District were awarded an LSTA Demonstration Grant entitled, The Value of Rural Libraries.  This grant gave the two libraries (both located within the Forrestville Valley School District) the opportunity to issue library cards to the families not currently served by the libraries.  Ninety new library cards were issued to prospective library patrons.  This also gave us the opportunity to increase hours of operation at both libraries, as well as extending programming at both libraries.  Many new books were added to the shelves of both libraries with many focusing on school subjects to help with the school curriculum.

Two newsletters were sent to all residents living within the school district boundaries prior to the February 5, 2008 election.  A referendum was placed on the ballot asking all residents not currently served by a library district “if they would like to become a part of the Forreston Public Library District.”  While the referendum did not pass, we were somewhat encouraged that it could pass at some future date.  

It has been our hope through this grant that more people have been able to see the value of rural libraries in our communities.