Family offers $50,000 to match donations for new Delmont library

Patrick Varine
Monday, Oct. 28, 2019 5:17 p.m. | Monday, Oct. 28, 2019 5:17 p.m.

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Architect’s concept art for the new Delmont Public Library, which will include solar panels on the roof as well as other “green” features.

Delmont resident Bill Lendl and his family value their local public library and want to see it thrive.

That’s why Lendl announced a matching fundraising challenge, where he agreed to match community donations up to $50,000, which will be put toward the building fund for the new Delmont Public Library.

“I’ve lived all over the United States, and I can tell you, Delmont and the people here are some of the best,” Lendl said. “Our family values the library, and considers the new library a vital part of Delmont’s future.”

The library’s capital campaign has raised more than $1 million, with another $400,000 needed to begin construction of an eco-friendly building with solar panels, geothermal heating and rainwater collection.

“It’s going to be state of the art,” said Dave Weber, president of the library’s board of trustees. “LED lighting, sustainable energy — we know that’s the future we need to pursue, and we’re doing it.”

Librarian Denni Grassel said she nearly had a heart attack when Lendl made the announcement.

“My mouth just dropped, and I began to cry,” Grassel said. “We’re so close to our goal, and now we can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Contributions through the end of June will be matched by the Lendl family, and can be dropped off at the library or mailed to 77 Greensburg St., Delmont, PA 15626. Donations can also be made online at DelmontLibrary.org or via PayPal.

For more information, call 724-468-5329.