A unique arrangement between Carson City Library and Smith’s Food and Drug Center has opened a pathway between the library and local supermarket — literally. For many years staff and volunteers parked directly behind the back of the library. Alternative parking was considered when parking in the back lot was no longer an option.

Parking choices included the already tight public parking lot in front of the library or across Roop Street at the Community Center. Sara Jones, Carson City Library Director, approached Smith’s Manager Michael Cook and asked if staff parking in the adjacent Smith’s parking lot was an acceptable option. Smith’s corporate headquarters approved the use of vacant parking spots by library staff and volunteers and made the use to the Library for parking free of charge.

Doing a story time with Mayor Bob Crowell in the Smith’s parking lot on a blustery fall morning is an example of bringing library services to the patrons, whether inside a supermarket or a supermarket’s parking lot. An added convenience is the opportunity for a quick grocery-run when one’s car is already in a handy parking spot.

“Your Knowledge and Discovery Place”, Carson City Library, open Monday ,Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., is located at the corner of Roop and Washington Streets. For more information call 887-2244 or checkout our website at www.carsoncitylibrary.org.

Photo: Carson City Mayor Bob Crowell and Smith's Assistant Manager Stormie Lafinier read stories to Lainey Jones, 6, Ellie Jones, 2, and Eastyn Hendrix, 4, in the Smith's parking lot Tuesday morning to showcase a new good neighbor agreement that allows Carson City Library staff and volunteers to park in the Smith's lot, saving the City more than $1,800 a year.

Photo by Cathleen Allison / Nevada Photo Source