Culbertson library awarded $20,000 grant

LINCOLN, Nebraska -- Culbertson's and seven other Nebraska public libraries recently received a helping hand, thanks to the generosity of a lifelong educator, the late Shirley Kreutz Bennett of Lincoln.

The Culbertson Public Library was awarded $20,000 to construct and furnish a new 3,000-square-foot library. The community has already raised more than $300,000 for the project.

Each year the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund, an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation, accepts proposals for matching grants for public libraries in communities with populations of fewer than 3,000.

Following Ms. Kreutz Bennett's wishes, a Fund Advisory Committee composed of her nieces and nephews recommends grants in three areas: planning grants leading to accreditation; enhancement grants to improve library services; and facilities grants for new construction or the renovation, restoration or rehabilitation of current libraries.

All grants require a certain level of matching funds and evidence that the project has broad community support. Approximately $70,000 to $80,000 is available each year. Grant seekers are encouraged to review the guidelines and application procedures at www.nebcommfound.org/fund/kreutzbennett.

There are 228 libraries in Nebraska communities with populations under 3,000, which makes them eligible for a grant from the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund.