BOZEMAN—The Bozeman Public Library Foundation announced today a $50,000 gift from First Security Bank toward renovations at the Bozeman Public Library.
The renovations began last month and will create new learning labs, quiet reading areas, a small recording studio, and a new central meeting place within the Library. As part of the BPL Forward Capital Campaign to improve Library service in Gallatin Valley, the renovations tie into the broader shift among libraries from being book repositories to serving as community centers with free classes on various subjects and access to a wide range of technology. The $5.6 million renovation is funded entirely by donations from corporations, foundations, and private individuals.

First Security Bank has been a generous supporter of the Bozeman Public Library over the years, including making a $25,000 donation toward the construction of the current library in 2006. "First Security Bank is proud to support the Bozeman Public Library in their renovation project," says Jim Ness, President and CEO of First Security Bank. "The Bozeman Public Library is a huge asset that benefits our entire community. With these renovations, our library continues to strive to meet the needs of our growing community. We are lucky to have such a wonderful and safe place for our community members to enjoy and expand their knowledge."

Bozeman has become home to more than 20,000 new residents since the Library opened in its current Main Street location sixteen years ago. "We'll always have books and quiet spaces for our patrons," explains Bozeman Public Library Director Susan Gregory. "Our growing community also needs more and better spaces for meetings, for classes such as healthy cooking demonstrations and computer software training, and for recording and sharing their ideas through podcasting and music. This renovation gives us extraordinary bang for the buck to modernize our Library, and we're grateful to First Security for their important role in making it possible."

For more information about the BPL Forward capital campaign, please call Jen Shoemaker, Bozeman Public Library Foundation Development and Communications Manager, at 406-582-2437.

About the Bozeman Public Library and the Bozeman Public Library Foundation:
The Bozeman Public Library has created opportunities that inspire curiosity, exploration, and connection since 1891. The 501(c)(3) Public Library Foundation raises funds for capital improvements and to increase and enhance the quality of programs, services, and events at the Library.