East Texas

By ADAM RUSSELL
Staff Writer

BULLARD - The Bullard Community Library's Capital Campaign received a $50,000 anonymous donation to help push the library toward its $1 million goal.

The donors hope the gift will challenge other foundations and individuals to come forward with large and small donations to help build the new library building.

More than $400,000 has been raised to date - $168,000 from locals and $232,000 from corporate and foundation gifts.

"There are many noticeable causes in our area, but none of more lasting importance or value to the entire Bullard community than a new library building," Library Director Debbie Brown said in a statement.

She said donors should consider donations a long-term investment for one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas.

Library Board President Jane Prokesh said two or three substantial grants could pave the way for groundbreaking during 2008.

The new 10,000-square-foot facility will also house the community's Meals on Wheels program and give seniors a place to eat and socialize. The building will also serve as an exhibit hall and meeting place for clubs, organizations, special programs and entertainment.

Some site preparation has begun and architectural floor plans and a three-dimensional site plan are on display at the current library. New building plans and site elevations are also available at www.bullardlibrary.org with a link to the Capital Campaign. The library will serve residents in Bullard, including Emerald Bay, Cumberland Ridge and Eagle's Bluff, as well as Flint, Gresham, Mixon, Jacksonville, Whitehouse and Tyler.

"We have big plans for new programs and offerings when we have the new 10,000 square foot building," Brown said in a statement. "That will be a proud day for all the citizens of the Bullard area."