To the editor,

River Falls Public Library’s “Renew and Inspire Capital Campaign” is underway to significantly renovate the building, upgrade technologies and enhance its services to individuals, groups and the community. Jane Hoffman’s recently published book, “River Falls Public Library: The Legacy of its Founding Mothers,” details the work of area women’s groups to advocate and raise funds for the first RF Library. Those “Founding Mothers” established a “Rest Room” in 1913 on Elm Street. There, ladies and their children could socialize, relax and refresh themselves while in town in one of the limited, “appropriate” environments afforded them. Books were soon contributed and the room became the locus for the first public library in River Falls.

One feature of today’s planned upgrade is a Quiet Room where all who come to the library can have a safe space for calm. We're urging women, in particular, to contribute to the library ‘s “Renew & Inspire Capital Campaign” to name the Quiet Room. This comfortable area might be used by lactating mothers, overstimulated children, or to reduce the noise and stress of the day. The goal is $50,000 to honor the legacy of all “Founding Mothers” and will include information about the original "Rest Room." Please consider making a contribution to this effort.  To contribute go to https://riverfallspubliclibrary.org/foundation/ and scroll to Donations to Capital Campaign.  At the Dedication request, designate the Quiet Room.  (If you have already made a donation without a designation, please add that to the designation after the fact.)

Thank you for your consideration.

Lorraine Davis

Volunteer Renew & Inspire Capital Campaign