Fifth graders' concern leads to opening of Kensington Library June 14

What do you do when you are a 5th grader bored during the summer? Read a book? What if you want access to books and your small town doesn't have a public library? This was the dilemma of three Kensington 5th grade students two years ago (in 1986). As a result of their work, A Public Library will open in Kensington on June 14, 1988.

Mindy Bretton, Michelle Isom, and Tonya Rahjes found themselves in such a situation a couple of years ago. Later, Audra Goracke joined in their cause. What was done from that point on was noteworthy.

Along the way they talked to their school librarian, Shelia Blume, then they went to the City Council, presented their concerns to the School Board, and attended a Public Hearing. Their final step was to distribute flyers door to door about opening a public library. The citizens of Kensington supported their dreams. Starting in January 1989, tax funds was available for a Public Library.

The next dilemma was for a library board to be appointed by the City Council. What do you do when you won't have any tax funds until January and there are children who want a library now?

The library board made up of seven local residents and Shelia Blume, decided to begin a Summer Program on June 14 and each Tuesday for eight weeks.

The library's location is within the Kensington High School's southwest door. With the School Board's initial provisions of a room and utilities, the next decision became finances for operating expenses. Towards that need, the library board sponsored an Ice Cream Social for the entire community. With these funds, the library board hoped to provide services throughout the Summer and Fall.

The Chairman of the Board, Judy Rahjes said "We hope the community will come and get a taste of their library." You can bet that four smiling girls, now 7th graders, will be there as well.