K-State Libraries hosted a virtual ribbon cutting for Hale Library’s grand reopening.
K-State officials and donors read from the Tale of Hale about the history of the library and its reconstruction progress during a livestream.
Before the fire, plans on renovations of the library began back in 2016. Benefactor Ellie Everitt says she and her husband, Dave, believed in this new vision. The Everitts were the lead donors for the project as part of the K-State Foundation’s Innovation and Inspiration campaign.
Then in 2018, an accidental fire was started, but contained on the roof. However, water and smoke caused significant damage to the building. University Library Committee Chair Amy Rosine says 85% of the library was in need of repair.