Library Foundation Receives $10,000 Grant to Expand Small Business Education in Republic

The Springfield-Greene County Library Foundation has received a $10,000 grant from the Arvest Foundation to expand educational programming at the Republic Branch Library, with a particular focus on offerings for local businesses and professionals. 

Bridget Dierks, Executive Director of the Library Foundation, said the grant will support a diverse slate of initiatives at the Republic Branch Library for residents of all ages. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the Arvest Foundation for helping us make the most of everything our beautiful new Republic Branch Library has to offer,” said Dierks. “Their support will help us fill these new spaces with high-quality experiences that bring people together to learn, create and connect.” 

Public programs will include professional development workshops, hands-on programs introducing small business owners to the Library’s Maker Space resources, and monthly business and financial programs presented in partnership with Arvest Bank. Funding will also support special cultural events in the Friends of the Library Auditorium, including live music and an author event, as well as a new series of hands-on nature and homesteading programs designed specifically for school-age children.

Shane Cowger, president of Arvest Bank's Springfield region, said that the company is proud to invest in Republic, and that the new branch, including its Business Connect center, is "a testament to community-focused vision." 

"Our expansion into Republic is rooted in a commitment to empowering the people, businesses, and initiatives that drive long-term regional success," Cowger said. "We are deeply grateful for the Arvest Foundation's generous support of lifelong learning pathways that equip local families and entrepreneurs to thrive."

The new grant-funded programming begins Sept. 19 with Nature Adventures, a monthly program for ages 8–14 that responds to community demand for more hands-on, skill-building and STEM opportunities for school-age children. For information about upcoming events at the Republic Branch Library and all other branches, visit thelibrary.org/programs.