HPL
A project to remodel the Hays Public Library is slated to begin in August. A portion of the project will be funded by a generous gift from the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation. The foundation has pledged to donate $100,000.
“The Library Board and staff can’t begin to express our gratitude for the generosity of the Schmidt Foundation,” said Hays Public Library Director Brandon Hines. “Bob and Pat’s legacy is exemplified by the Schmidt Gallery they generously funded during the 2004 renovation. It will only grow and have even greater impact through experiences, learning, and community engagement that will happen in the new space.”
This project will update portions of the first and second floors, which have not seen any significant changes in nearly 17 years. In particular, the donation will be used for the first floor remodel with the creation of an engaging area for patrons to gather and private meeting rooms.
The Schmidts have long been benefactors of the Hays Public Library. For the previous renovation, they donated $50,000, which led to development of the Schmidt Visual and Performing Arts Gallery.
The Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation is a private foundation based in Hays that was founded in 1990. Bob Schmidt was determined to continue to be a major contributor to projects important to Kansas through the Schmidt Foundation. Fort Hays State University, HaysMed, numerous civic groups, and industry groups have received his generous philanthropic support.