From the Chamber
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, April 30, celebrating the completion of major accessibility improvements at the Great Bend Public Library. The project helps ensure that all community members can safely and comfortably access the library’s services.
Guests gathered as the library unveiled its newly reconstructed 60‑foot ADA‑compliant ramp, designed to meet modern accessibility standards and replace the original structure that had become too steep for current code. A new wheelchair lift on the north side of the building now stands where a deteriorating staircase once was, offering a safer and more inclusive entry point for patrons. The project also included new handrails, concrete repairs, curb cuts, and the addition of four ADA parking stalls on the public side of the lot.
Library Director Maribeth Shafer shared her excitement with attendees, noting that the improvements reflect the library’s commitment to welcoming every member of the community. She added that the library always has something going on and encouraged residents to stop in and take a look.
The accessibility upgrades were made possible through a combination of grants, endowment support, and strong local partnerships. The Golden Belt Community Foundation contributed $5,000 through its Spring Community Building Grant, helping fund the new lift. The library also received two $10,000 grants from the American Library Association’s Libraries Transforming Communities initiative in 2024 and 2025. Additional support came from the library’s Whelan Endowment, which provides annual funding for projects that enhance community access and quality of life.
Several local partners played essential roles in bringing the project to life. Ramirez Construction completed the concrete work, Stairlifts of Kansas installed the new lift, and the City of Great Bend’s Public Works Department repainted the parking lot to accommodate the new ADA spaces. The library expressed deep appreciation for each organization’s contribution, emphasizing that the improvements were truly a community effort.
The celebration concluded with refreshments inside the library and a group photo near the new lift. Shafer encouraged the community to visit often, especially with the library’s Summer Program kicking off on May 29. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Sundays.
More information about programs, services, and upcoming events can be found at greatbendpl.info.