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A Michigan Community to Get a Better, Bigger Library, Thanks to USDA Support

Posted by Alec Lloyd, Michigan USDA Public Information Officer in Initiatives Rural
May 25, 2011
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner speaks at the groundbreaking for Morton Township Library.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner speaks at the groundbreaking for Morton Township Library.

Recently Morton Township, Michigan held the groundbreaking ceremony for its library expansion.  Located in the Village of Mecosta on the western side of the Lower Peninsula, the event was a wonderful example of how a rural community can come together to support a project.

The event featured blessings from both of the town’s pastors, speeches from local officials including the township supervisor and library director, and the children from Mecosta Elementary School sang a pair of songs to commemorate the occasion.

USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner presents a commemorative certificate to Morton Township Library Director Mary Ann Lennon.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner presents a commemorative certificate to Morton Township Library Director Mary Ann Lennon.

USDA Rural Development provided a loan and a grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The community has already raised more than $150,000 – a substantial contribution for a community of less than 4,000 residents.

The new structure will total 13,709 square feet, an increase of 8,800 square feet over the existing facility and it will offer more computer workstations, meeting rooms, and greatly improved parking.

For information about how USDA programs can assist your community, click here.

Category/Topic: Initiatives Rural