The Centralia Library is stepping up fundraising efforts to match requirements for major grants that will bring new computers to the Library system. The grants are through the Gates Foundation and will mean 18 new computers for the library system.

Library Programming and Public Relations Official Diana Donahoo says the library will be required to match some of the grant funds, which will total 46,800 dollars. "In the first phase we'll have to raise 25 percent, which is $6,500," she says. "In the second phase we'll have to raise 50 percent, which is $10,400." The Library's next fundraising event will be this Saturday from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. at the Regional Library, when the institution will offer "Pictures with Santa." The cost for an 8 by 10 photo poster is 10 dollars. Santa will also read to the children. A food stand kicked off fundraising efforts at the Centralia Children's Halloween Parade and the library is also selling reusable canvas bags. Future plans include a raffle and a cookbook.

Donahoo says there are deadlines to raise the funds. "The first phase will have to be met by March 1, 2010," she says. "In the second phase, we have another year to March 2011." She believes the library will meet the grant requirements and the computers are sorely needed. Some have been operating since 2001 and need to be replaced. Donahoo says the Gates Foundation likes to see community involvement and anyone wanting to donate or help can contact the library at 532-5222.