March 5, 2020
Mid-Continent Public Library is pleased to announce the completion of renovations at its Buckner Branch (19 E. Jefferson St., Buckner, Mo.), which reopened to the public on February 5. An official Rededication Ceremony will be held at the Buckner Branch on Friday, March 13, at 9:00 a.m. The ceremony will include remarks from Library leadership as well as local officials, followed by a special “book-opening” ceremony and reception.
On Saturday, March 14, the Buckner Branch will host an Open House from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., which will include light refreshments, an appearance by the Library’s mascot Marty the Martian, and an "I Love My Library" selfie station. The open house will kick off with entertainment by Mad Science (registration required for Lynn’s performance). All customers will receive a $10 fine forgiveness token (one per person) during the ceremony on Friday, March 13, and all day on Saturday, March 14. Tokens can be used one time to clear all Library fines and fees up to $10.
In addition, the Library will offer a mobile scavenger hunt through the free GooseChase app, which customers can participate in to qualify for a $50 gift certificate to Tuscano’s Italian Restaurant. The Buckner Branch Scavenger Hunt will kick off at the rededication ceremony on March 13 and run through Saturday, March 21, at 6:00 p.m.
Since the Buckner Branch closed in July 2019, it has received a variety of interior and exterior upgrades, including an updated entrance; more windows for increased natural light; new paint, carpet, and furnishings; and upgraded technology—from new computers to improved Wi-Fi coverage and access.
As part of MCPL’s Capital Improvement Plan, the Buckner Branch is one of many Library branches to receive upgrades, which have been made possible by increased funding from the passage of Proposition L by voters in 2016. While the upgrades at each branch vary based on individual community needs and the building’s current condition, the Library’s goal has been to create more intentional spaces and improve essential technology. Design work for the five-year Capital Plan is being completed by Sapp Design Architects and Helix Architecture + Design with JE Dunn assuming responsibility for construction contractor management.
In addition to all the physical upgrades, the increased funding approved by voters in 2016 has allowed MCPL to expand branch hours, enhance special services, augment early literacy efforts, and buy more materials.
More information about the Buckner Branch’s reopening can be found at mymcpl.org/Community.
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