Library receives accreditation

RED OAK — For the first time in its storied history, Red Oak’s Public Library is now fully accredited with the State of Iowa.

Librarian Kathi Wagner said the library has always been partially accredited, but without a handicap-accessible elevator, had never received the full accreditation.

“This is a 27-year dream come true,” Wagner said, referencing the number of years she has worked at the local library.

Wagner said when the library board first considered adding the elevator several years ago, they realized if they started modifying the century old building they would have to fix several other things that had been grandfathered.

The result was a $1.9 million renovation that included a 1,900 square-foot expansion, completed last year.

The accreditation is valid through June 30, 2014, and qualifies the library for a higher rate of compensation through the State Library of Iowa’s Enrich Iowa program.

“The level of accreditation you are at definitely affects your funding from the state,” Wagner said. “Being accredited at the top level really helps us march on with making more improvements in the future.”

State Librarian Mary Wegner said achieving accreditation requires a significant, ongoing local commitment to high quality library services.

“The director and board of trustees of the Red Oak Public Library and the city of Red Oak are to be commended for this achievement and their commitment to excellence in public library services for their community,” Wegner said.