Bassett Library Expansion and Renovation Project

BASSETT BRANCH LIBRARY

The Bassett Library was established in 1939, and has undergone many changes over its history. It became a branch library of the Blue Ridge Regional Library in 1992. It moved into a former storefront at 3969 Fairystone Park Highway in 1998, due to the expansion of the Bassett Historical Center. It welcomes and serves residents of all ages in the northern part of Henry County, including Bassett, Reed Creek, Blackberry, Stanleytown and the surrounding areas.

BACKGROUND

Overcrowded Bassett Library meeting room

“The spaces we have are not
adequate for the number of
patrons we are seeing”

- Rick Ward, BRRL Director

The need for an expansion of this small library has been a long-term goal of the Library Director, Trustees and BRRL Foundation. As Director Rick Ward said, "This library has gotten so successful that the spaces we have are not adequate for the numbers of patrons we are seeing."

The Library Trustees voted for an expansion and renovation of the existing library in 2019, to better serve the Bassett community. The pandemic brought our plans to a temporary halt, beginning in March 2020.

A site survey was done in 2020, and the Trustees hired experienced library architect Glenn Reynolds to design preliminary plans in 2021. We are planning a branch library for the next 10 - 20 years. A Steering Committee was formed in August 2022, comprised of Bassett Library patrons, Trustees and Foundation members. In the fall of 2022, BRRL Foundation President, Elizabeth Haskins completed an application to the Harvest Foundation to request funds. An updated cost analysis was done by Blair Construction in November 2023. The estimate is $2,084,137 for the addition, renovation of the existing building, parking and landscaping.

The Steering Committee held a project launch on March 24, 2023, and we are thrilled to announce that the Harvest Foundation made a pledge of $396,184, which requires matching funds. The project campaign slogan is "Build a Better Bassett....Book by Book." The MHC After 3 youth designed the logo.

Our goal is to raise $2,224,000 to include appliances and furniture.

THE PLAN

A new, enlarged children's department
A new meeting room accommodating 50 adults which will be available after hours
A designated young adult area
Quiet study and tutoring areas
Centralized computer area

Additional restrooms, restroom renovation & accessibility
Improved handicapped entrances & parking
A drive-thru window
Improved branch manager's office and staff work areas
Material storage areas

THE IMPACT

The Bassett Branch Library Expansion and Renovation Project aims to increase patron participation in library programming, as well as improve other areas including:

Preschool, school age & family literacy
Summer Reading & Summer Feeding Programs
Year-round educational and entertainment activities, inclusive of all ages and groups
Service to disabled adults
Service to senior citizes
Teen & young adult services
Outreach to underserved communities

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We invite you to make a difference in the lives of our residents by making a pledge or donation towards "Building a Better Bassett"

Donate via Check

Make checks payable to:
The Blue Ridge Regional Library Foundation, Inc.

Mail to:
Blue Ridge Regional Library Foundation, Inc.
3969 Fairystone Park Highway
Bassett, VA 24055

(please note "for Expansion Project" in memo)

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