Community members are invited to celebrate and tour the newly remodeled Everson McBeath Community Library at a Monday, June 27 event. Following brief remarks by community leaders at 9:45 a.m. and a 10 a.m. ribbon cutting, guests may tour the library and participate in Summer Reading kickoff activities. The event ends when the library closes at 8 p.m.
A $144,000 bequest to the Friends of Everson Library from the estate of Fred D. and Evelyn Nowicke kickstarted the renovation. Over the past five years, Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) staff and Friends of Everson Library members have been steadily planning and implementing updates to the 4,142-square-foot library’s infrastructure and interior spaces. The building was constructed in 1977 with additions in 1983 and 1997. The remodel includes new furniture and fixtures, improved sight lines, an expanded teen section, an historic photo installation and a redesign of the Nooksack Valley Heritage Center. In addition to the Nowicke’s generous seed money, WCLS contributed $75,000 to the project. The City of Everson also replaced the roof on the city-owned building.
“Patrons frequently tell us that the renovated library feels bright and open. It feels like a brand new space,” says Paul Fullner, who was recently named manager of the Everson and Sumas libraries. “We hope everyone will come out to enjoy this new space for themselves, to learn about our Summer Reading program, and to celebrate and connect with fellow readers in our community.” Summer Reading kickoff activities include free books for all young people in attendance, fun all-ages crafts, and the chance to talk with library staff about in-person summer programs and Summer Reading book recommendations.
“We are so grateful for the Nowicke’s generosity,” adds WCLS Executive Director Christine Perkins. “They loved books and reading and treasured the Everson Library. Reading brought a lot of joy to their lives. Now, thanks to their donation, their love of reading lives on at the Everson Library.” Originally from the Chicago area, the Nowickes eventually landed in Everson, where Fred Nowicke worked as a butcher. After retirement, the couple continued to read avidly, and their home bookshelves had books several layers deep.
The Everson McBeath Community Library is located at 104 Kirsch Drive in Everson. The library is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.