© 2024 KRCU Public Radio
90.9 Cape Girardeau | 88.9-HD Ste. Genevieve | 88.7 Poplar Bluff
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
The latest news from every corner of the state, including policy emerging from Missouri's capitol.

Cape Girardeau Public Library Receives Statewide 'Library of the Year' Recognition, Hosts Open House

The Cape Girardeau Public Library was recently recognized as the '2024 MO Library of the Year'.
Cape Girardeau Public Library
The Cape Girardeau Public Library was recently recognized as the '2024 MO Library of the Year'.

The Cape Girardeau Public Library recently announced its receipt of the prestigious 2024 'Library of the Year Award' from the Missouri Library Association.

This honor recognizes the library’s outstanding community service, commitment to intellectual freedom, and dedication to expanding access to information and resources for all residents.

Over the past year, the Cape Girardeau Public Library has increased its community engagement and resource accessibility. A key highlight was joining Missouri Evergreen— a statewide resource-sharing consortium, that connects libraries across Missouri.

This integration has significantly expanded the library’s collection, providing patrons with access to a wide range of educational and recreational materials from libraries throughout the state.

Additionally, the library established a reciprocal borrowing agreement with Riverside Regional Library, allowing residents in both districts to obtain library cards at either location. This partnership has enhanced accessibility to library services for residents across Cape Girardeau County.

Despite facing multiple book challenges, it remains committed to providing access to diverse perspectives and upholding the community’s right to free expression.

Library director Katie Earnhart expressed her gratitude.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this award,” said library director Katie Earnhart.

She continued her appreciation for the staff.

“Our team is passionate about serving the community and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access information, engage in lifelong learning, and discover new ideas. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, and we are proud to be a beacon of knowledge, inclusion, and innovation for Cape Girardeau."

The library is hosting an Open House Reception on Thursday, October 3rd, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, which will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, library card signups, interactive activity stations, and light refreshments.

Katie Earnhart has served as the Cape Girardeau Public Library's director since August 2018.

Ashton Randolph joined KRCU Public Radio in Sept. 2023 and is a co-producer of the 'SEMO Spotlight' and 'Exposition' podcasts. Ashton is a Communications Disorders Major at Southeast Missouri State University and also serves as a Student Ambassador.