New Library Creates Gathering Space for Wyoming Life Resource Center Community

In Lander, hundreds of people live and work at the Wyoming Life Resource Center, but the center lacks quality reading materials (the library is too far away to be reached by residents with mobility challenges) and a communal place for residents to gather (and employees to recoup during long shifts). When a long-time employee whose job includes ensuring quality of life for residents recognized this gap, she reached out to LOR with a plan to transform an unused space into a library. Working mostly on her own time, she gathered volunteers—primarily passionate employees—to clear the space and collect donated books, but needed help with the finishing touches to make it functional. The library will serve as more than a place to check out books; it will provide a communal space where residents can gather to play games, chat, watch movies together, or read quietly, while employees have a place to recharge during breaks. LOR’s funding will help purchase furniture including bookshelves and bean bags, book supplies for cataloging and maintenance, posters, and miscellaneous items like library cards and due date slips, opening a whole new world to this underserved community.