On June 25, a lively and emotional groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a transformative renovation and expansion of the historic D.R. Moon Memorial Library. The event was attended by a …
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On June 25, a lively and emotional groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a transformative renovation and expansion of the historic D.R. Moon Memorial Library. The event was attended by a broad cross-section of community and state leadership, including Governor Tony Evers, Mayor Mike Henke, Stanley council members, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, the Library Board, and Library Director Elizabeth Miniatt.
Governor Evers arrived early and toured the library’s original 1901 building, exploring its charming yet aging interior spaces before the formal ceremony. Evers delivered heartfelt remarks underscoring the vital role of public libraries—especially in small communities like Stanley. He praised the facility’s historic significance and emphasized the project’s forward-looking vision in his remarks: “The D.R. Moon Memorial Library is not only a beautiful historic landmark, but it has remained an essential space for local kids and families to learn, grow, and thrive. This iconic library has established itself as a staple to the community. After over a century, it’s about time this historic library receives an upgrade,” he said.
Evers continued, underscoring the project’s impact: “From expanding ADA accessibility to adding dedicated spaces for kids and teens, this expansion will allow the library to serve more folks while preserving its historic charm. I’m glad that our administration was able to help support this essential restoration through the four-million-dollar flexible facilities grant.” He added that in today’s world, access to reliable high-speed internet is essential—particularly for how people work, learn, and stay connected. “I’m a real supporter of libraries and books—keeping the old and adding to it,” Evers said, adding that this expansion project will be something to celebrate for years to come. Evers emphasized the increasing importance of digital resources and access, especially in rural communities.
“Technology is important for libraries and communities,” he said. “But at the end of the day, our public libraries—especially in our small towns—are really, really important to keeping the energy going. People love their public libraries, and this gives them something to be proud about, but is going to be usable, especially along the issue of technology.”
He also made a pointed statement about the necessity of modernizing public library services for the future: “If they don’t do that, they’re going to die,” Evers said. “We want our libraries to be the center of the community.”
Mayor Henke, overcome with emotion, spoke through tears as he reflected on the library’s deep roots in the community and the personal significance it held, noting that his parents had been part of its legacy.
Library Board President Cathy Ryba also took the podium, thanking Governor Evers and the state’s Flexible Facilities Program for their substantial support. “It is through his forward-thinking nature and the love of books and education that the Flexible Facilities Program was created. This program has made an amazing impact on our project and many different libraries across the state. His support has made our project possible and is the reason why we are standing here today,” Ryba stated.
Miniatt, who co-led the fundraising and planning efforts, shared her excitement for the project’s extended space that will bring future benefits for the community mentioning a teen space, dedicated children’s area, and space for adults and seniors that the current library is lacking. This added space is designed for community connection, learning, and creativity. She also expressed gratitude to the many behind-the-scenes individuals whose support and efforts have helped make the library building project and expansion a reality, including Val Schute and the River Architects team, IFLS Library System Director John Thompson, and Mike and Julie Tomsyck with Kolbe Windows.
Board President Ryba, Director Miniatt, and Governor Evers each offered heartfelt reflections on the library’s central role in community life—tying together heritage, learning, and growth.
The project, supported by a $4.1 million state grant announced in October 2024, will renovate the existing building—with new windows, insulation, updated electrical systems, and full ADA compliance—and add a contemporary addition that will feature dedicated children’s and teen zones and a community event space named the ‘Walter and Marie Wartolec Community Room’ in honor of their generous land donation that has made the expansion possible.
Construction is set to commence immediately and proceed in phases over the next 12 to 18 months with library services continuing in a limited capacity throughout that period.
As ceremonial shovels struck the earth, tears, cheers, and applause echoed across the site—capturing a collective pride in preserving the D.R. Moon Memorial Library’s legacy while building its future. The site’s transformation promises to serve Stanley for the next century and beyond.
