Library project taking shape

SIKESTON - If it were a book title it might be called "The Building Blocks to Better Reading."

Construction is officially underway at the Sikeston Public Library to renovate space for children's activities and other programming events.

"And so it begins," said Libby Caskey, as she watched workers scramble up and down ladders Wednesday.

Caskey, who headed the campaign to raise the approximately $550,000 needed to pay for the construction, along with Library Director Sue Tangeman and Ron Eiffert, assistant library director, were all smiles as the project already is taking shape.

Zoellner Construction of Perryville was busy Wednesday working upstairs and downstairs where they will create an 800-square-foot programming space with a raised platform for presentations. Also the downstairs area will provide up-to-date equipment and technology for programs and a refurbished kitchen area along with an elevator, ramp and restrooms making it handicap accessible.

"We are very excited," Tangeman added about the project getting underway.

According to the contract, construction is expected to take no more than 250 days. The projected finish date is May 18, 2015.

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