The future of the Edgewood Book Barn is uncertain after town commissioners raised concerns about ADA compliance and fire safety during a recent town commission meeting.
The Barn is at risk of eviction by June 30, following a 30-day notice issued by the town to terminate the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The MOU is a short-term agreement between the town and the Friends of the Library, which allows the group to use the portable building that houses the Book Barn. It includes a clause permitting either party to end the agreement with 30 days’ notice, which the town has now exercised.
KR Scott, acting president of the Edgewood Friends of Our Library Society, sent out a community announcement to voice his distress and provide clarity on the issue.
“This has been a real possibility for the last 8 months and we are at the point of seriously looking at what we will do by the 30th,” Scott said.
The Town Commission decided not to renew the MOU until the building’s compliance issues are resolved.
If the facility meets ADA and fire safety standards by the June 10 commission meeting, the MOU may be renewed for another six months. If not, the Book Barn must vacate by the end of the month.
“This is the worst-case scenario for us,” Scott said. “ Whether or not we will be open for regular business on June 21st will be dependent on the results of the June 10th Commission meeting.”
While the Book Barn hopes for a favorable outcome, the team is preparing for all possibilities and has been brainstorming ways to place their extensive collection into the hands of those who will value it.
The group is exploring options, including:
- Finding a new location that is safe, accessible and affordable (although options are limited and expensive according to Scott’s research)
- Donating books to other non-profits and “book-loving groups” as well as holding a final community sale, which will include tables, furniture, and shelving
- Liquidating all remaining assets in the portable if no other solutions are available
Despite the uncertainty, Scott emphasized that the Edgewood Friends of Our Library Society will continue its mission.
“The Friends have existed since before Edgewood was formed. Without the Book Barn, we will have to think of very creative ways we can still serve the library and Edgewood.”
For more information or to offer support, contact K.R. Scott at bookbarn24@gmail.com or 480-353-7814, or reach Linda at 480-236-3257.