Kewaskum library board begins planning $400,000+ elevator capital campaign to improve accessibility

The Kewaskum Library Board opened discussion June 12 on a capital fundraising campaign to install an elevator to make the lower‑level community room accessible to people who cannot use stairs.

Library Director Stephanie told the board the most recent vendor quote she had seen was for $350,000 in 2024 and that, given current conditions, “I expect it to be over $400,000 at the very least.” She said the project would be a capital campaign requiring a plan, timeline and community support.

Board members recommended forming a subcommittee that would include foundation representatives and selected citizens to lead fundraising and event planning. Members suggested searching for grants specific to accessibility — both state and federal — and using the upcoming trip by staff to library trade events to identify potential funding sources. One member urged that the board develop a detailed, shovel‑ready project budget before seeking major grants or gifts.

The director outlined near‑term next steps: request an updated vendor quote, research grant opportunities, consult with Adam, the village administrator, about statutory limits and village support, and return with concrete fundraising ideas at the next board meeting. The board did not take a formal vote to launch a campaign at this meeting but agreed on committee formation as the working approach.

What happens next: the director will solicit an updated estimate from the contractor who provided the 2024 quote, begin grant research, and propose a committee membership list and timeline at the July meeting.