There’s a conventional way to expand a public facility – let out bids for a general contractor and subcontractors. Then hope that the low bids come back under budget, and that they’re from reputable companies.

The Town of Hamlin chose an unconventional way of expanding its still-new public library. Supervisor Austin Warner sought out residents that had a skilled trade – electrician, carpenter, painter, and convinced them to donate their time and skills to the project.

"Austin sits behind me in church," said volunteer Fay Knapp. "A few weeks ago he said, ‘I’ve got this little project you might like to do.’"

Knapp, along with Jim Martin, Pete Goula, Dick Koss, and Bill and Nancy Jennejahn, have made up the core group that in a three-week period has nearly doubled the size of the existing library. Library Trustee Laurie Daniels and Warner have also put in time at the library painting.

"He didn’t do too bad of a job," Knapp allowed of Warner.

Expanding into the empty retail space next to it may not be rocket science, but it has required some expertise and a lot of elbow grease. The good news for Hamlin taxpayers is that the volunteer hours have saved about $3,500 in labor costs. Total cost for the 10 gallons of paint, some wood, dry wall, electric supplies, etc. is about $950.

Of course, the real good news is that Hamlin residents will have more space at the library for more materials, another computer and more programs. Interim Director Marcia Ferguson is still deciding how to arrange shelves and computer stations to take maximum advantage of the new space. The additional space also includes offices and a lunch room.

"It’s a throw back to the old days," Martin said of the project. "A time when people didn’t hesitate to do something for the community."

The Hamlin Library may be something more than just a place for borrowing books and using computers for research, Martin said. It’s a rallying point for Hamlinites looking for an identity for the town. "We’re split among three school districts, we don’t have much input into the state park, this is something that’s wholly ours."

Town Councilman Ed Evans agrees. "People who were against the library at the beginning are now using it. In less than a year there’s been a complete turn-around among the nay-sayers. It’s apparent that residents want the library and are willing to help out to make it better."