Endicott potato bar set for library A/C fund

The Endicott library is looking to make one big improvement for all of its programs and activities this summer: an air conditioning unit.

“The building is old, and it's had some moisture issues, so it gets incredibly humid in the summer,” said Tia Langston, library director. “We're hoping it will help.”

Langston said the library building, originally built in 1906, underwent remodeling three years ago, but the air conditioning was left off at that time.

“That was one of the things that didn't get done,” she said.

Langston said the library has raised about $2,000 with events and raffles, but they need to raise $5,000 for the air conditioner.

“We're trying to build up that savings and have it in here soon,” Langston said. “We are just taking it a day at a time.”

Langston added she was hoping the town would be able to contribute to the fund, but that budget is tight. However, she said, the community has been really supportive.

“It's going to take about $5,000 to get the whole thing done, and in a small community that's tough,” she said.

A potato bar feast is planned for Sunday, May 1, to benefit the air conditioning fund. The feast will be at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Endicott and has been organized by Jamie Misner, who agrees it can get really hot in the library during the summer months.

“When the kids come in for a program in the summer, they're sweltering,” Misner said. “An air conditioning unit in there could help preserve the building and the renovations longer and make it more comfortable for the programs and kids.”

Misner said she is hoping for a really good turnout Sunday evening.

“I'm hoping to raise at least $1,000,” she said. “It will get us closer.”

Misner said they hope the potato bar and a car wash May 21 during the Endicott Flea Market will get them to the fund raising goal.

Jenny Meyer at the Endicott Food Center is helping with the food on Sunday, and the feast will be at the church starting at 5 p.m.

Admission will be by donation.