Des Arc Library Comes to Fruition

Prairie County officials and residents came together in July for the grand opening of the new Des Arc Public Library. The library is housed in a renovated 1913 Presbyterian Church donated to the county by the Des Arc School District. It took eight years of work and raising funds to turn the library into a reality.

“We’re hoping it will provide the means to instill the love of reading for all of our young. We hope for it to be the heart of this community,” Prairie County Judge Mike Skarda said at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

State Sen. Jonathan Dismang attended the ribbon cutting and said he appreciates “the work of the judge and the community coming together.”

State Rep. David Hillman concurred: “You’ve made an investment in the future of Prairie County, and I commend you.

Judge Skarda thanked the many volunteers and laborers who helped with the library project. He gave a special thanks to Gene and Matilda Horne, longtime members of the church who helped contact the Presbyterian Church to ensure the stained glass windows and organ could remain part of the building.

Above: After eight years, a healthy amount of volunteer labor, and many grants later, Prairie County finally opened the doors of its new library in June in Des Arc. The library is housed in a renovated church. A plaque at the entrance states, “Transforming this beautiful Presbyterian Church into Des Arc Public Library started simply as a dream.” Far left: The church’s original organ remains on display in the building. Right, top: The library includes a large and colorful children’s area. In addition, there is a game area, and the library offers movie rentals. Right, bottom: Prairie County Judge Mike Skarda holds the ceremonial ribbon while Head Librarian April Highfill cuts the ribbon.