After the Rhinelander District Library restored an entrance to the original Carnegie doors, a local group has come forward to help pay for the changes.
The Rhinelander Masonic Lodge approached the library as Lodge spokesperson Tony Jones explains..
"...Knowing that the Rhinelander lodge was instrumental in laying the cornerstone, I thought this was the perfect opportunity for us to showcase our ability to stand up for the community and put together a fundraiser...."
Jones says they pulled out a campaign from the past...
"...We've decided to do an old fashioned penny campaign. We've got about 40 coffee cans that we would like to put out into the community. Anyone that happens to see one next to a cash register or shelf somewhere can drop in a penny, nickel, dime, quarter, dollar, and help us raise money a little at a time...."
The Masons helped place the cornerstone-time capsule in 1903. Library Director Virginia Roberts says the former opening was replaced in January. The 1984 doors aren't functional either, so the new opening will be available.
Other changes, including a vestibule, are happening..
"..We'll be placing a vestibule, an entry way right there. So the desk will turn 90 degrees and we'll be able to see the front and back doors and greet people as we always have, but we'll have a new front entry way facing Stevens St. which is the original entryway to the Carnegie building..."
Tony Jones says the cans are going out now and they will be collecting coins until the end of July. He says if retailers would like to host a coffee can, they can contact the library(715-365-1070) or contact Jones at the Masonic Lodge(715-493-9171). Their gmail is rhinelander242 @ gmail.com
