Category: Community

LAPEL – The Lapel Public Library is nearing the completion of a green space project aimed at enhancing the community’s options for activities and family gatherings.

Edra Waterman, Director of the Anderson Public Library, shared on Wednesday that the project has been in the works for several years.

“We envision the green space becoming a central part of our services and facilities in Lapel,” Waterman stated. “This project marks our first step toward improving services at the branch, which will also include extended hours.”

Waterman explained that the new space will host story times and other events, incorporating interactive elements for children to enjoy.

A community survey conducted by the South Madison Community Foundation revealed that local residents desired a space specifically for family gatherings in Lapel, according to Waterman.

Fredericks Construction has been working on the concrete portions of the project, which are nearing completion, and Hitchcock Design Group is set to handle the landscaping. Plans include the installation of play structures and a pavilion, anticipated to be finished this fall.

“We’re optimistic that the project will be wrapped up by the fall,” Waterman added. “It’s going to be a fantastic addition.”

Lapel Town Council President, Chad Blake, mentioned that the library consulted with the town council to discuss what the community needed. Initially, the town had considered purchasing the property for additional parking, but with the library’s expanded parking facilities, alternative uses for the space were explored.

“We already have parks in Lapel, but no dedicated area for people to relax outdoors and read,” Blake said. “This green space will be a great enhancement to the downtown area.”

Blake also expressed the hope that the new space will encourage more residents to visit the library.

Melanie Bishop, manager of the Lapel library, shared her excitement about the project’s potential.

“The possibilities are tremendous,” Bishop said. “The pavilion will be able to host entertainment, and the green space will add purpose to how the library is used by the community.”

The library is currently conducting a survey to gather feedback on its hours of operation, programming ideas for various age groups, and suggestions for additional services. New operating hours are scheduled to take effect on Jan. 2, and Bishop noted that the library is in the process of hiring a full-time children’s librarian.

The Herald Bulletin. “Lapel library adding interactive green space area” The Herald Bulletin, Sep. 20, 2024,

Photo Credit Crystal Ake 2024