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Government

One of Rock Island's Branch Libraries to be Sold

Rock Island's 30/21 branch library (file)
Michelle O'Neill

Rock Island Library Board will sell the 30-31 branch and close it before the end of the year. On Monday, the city council approved the board's plan to request proposals from realtors to put the former fire station on the market. 

Inside Rock Island's 30/31 branch library (file)
Credit Michelle O'Neill / WVIK News

Library Spokeswoman, Lisa Lockheart, says in 1957, a small room for library books was added to the fire station at 31st Street and 30th Avenue.

In 1999, the Rock Island Library Board expanded the collection and took over the entire building.

Closing the 30-31 branch is part of the library board's strategic plan. And the date it will be closed is December 14th. 

Sign in front of the Tri-City Jewish Center in Rock Island (file)
Credit Michelle O'Neill / WVIK News

Lockheart says the library foundation is working with another organization to conduct a fundraising feasibility study.

And the long term building plan includes sharing the Jewish Center with a potential building partner. 

Earlier this month, the Rock Island Library Board also decided to buy a bookmobile to help serve the entire city.

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Officially, Michelle's title for 28 years was WVIK News Editor. She did everything there is to do in the newsroom and whatever was needed around the radio station. She also served as Acting News Director from September 2023 - January 2024.