EDITORIAL: Libraries keep on innovating

It’s wonderful to see the upgrades that have been made in our local libraries over the past couple of years.

The ImagineIF Columbia Falls Library is the latest to get a much-needed facelift.

It has gotten a new pickup and self-checkout area, a new service desk and a new paint job.

The library will be closed Friday and Saturday for further remodeling that includes a revamped children’s area, updated technology lounge and new shelving.

Columbia Falls will celebrate the improvements with an event featuring music and refreshments from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 23.

ImagineIf Libraries, formerly known as the Flathead County Library System, is doing a great job of keeping pace with technology and opening the door to all kinds of innovative projects. These community libraries are one of the Flathead Valley’s best amenities.

Save the Gateway

Another worthy community resource is the Gateway Community Center, which has embarked on a $1 million Save the Gateway capital campaign to purchase the former Gateway West Mall building space it has leased for several years.

The United Way, the fiscal agent and project facilitator for Gateway Community Center, is leading the campaign. The Save the Gateway campaign is a one-time effort through the end of this month and is completely separate from the upcoming annual United Way campaign that raises money for numerous nonprofit agencies.

Owning its own quarters will give the community center — home to a dozen nonprofit groups with room for more — a secure place to call home. It also would ensure that $200,000 worth of in-kind building material donations, $162,222 in cash and 23,341 hours of volunteer time won’t be for naught.

Our many nonprofit organizations provide a wide array of valuable support services. We urge you to give generously to Save the Gateway.

Donations can be made at www.savethe gateway.org or sent to Gateway Community Center, P.O. Box 7684, Kalispell, MT 59904.