Arts and Culture
Cozad’s new Wilson Public Library has been a wonderful addition to the community. Internet access is available, along with a microfilm reader/printer. The library offers a preschool story hour once a week and a summer reading program. Meeting and conference room facilities are available to businesses and organizations. The Heritage Room provides history buffs a chance to review historical newspapers.
The Gothenburg Public Library has the unique distinction of being a “Carnegie Library.” Built in 1916, the library received funds donated by Andrew Carnegie, a U.S. philanthropist. The Gothenburg Public Library is recognized on the National Registry of Historic Buildings. The library recently completed a $1.5 million addition, including a technology room with Internet access. Patrons have access to approximately 26,000 volumes, which includes CDs and audio book tapes. Many audiovisual machines are available.
The old newspapers from the Gothenburg Times and Gothenburg Independent can be viewed on amicrofilm reader/printer. The children’s area provides a special place where they are welcome to explore various activities in a relaxing atmosphere, complete with comfy chairs and computers. Special activities include a preschool story hour in the winter months and a reading program for school-aged children in the summer. The library also sponsors a service program for hospital and nursing home patients, as well as other area shut-ins. A meeting room with kitchen is available for public use.
Lexington’s new $2.8 million library will be completed in 2005. The new library will be 18,528-square feet and have more than 47,000 volumes, nearly 2,500 audiovisual materials, computers, conference rooms, a children’s center, a section for high school students, Internet access and a kitchen.
The Sun Theatre in Gothenburg was built and used as an opera house from 1909 until 1926. Back in 1927, children could enjoy a silent movie accompanied by an orchestra for 10 cents (adults had to pay 20 cents).
The Gothenburg Community Playhouse purchased the theater in 1981, following a successful fund drive to “Save the Sun” from being closed. Now operated by volunteers, the Sun Theatre runs weekly movies Friday through Sunday, and sponsors Community Playhouse productions several times a year.
