It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page for Thursday February 12, 2026.
I think I can.
A new library requires more than brick and mortar. It needs new furniture, new fixtures, and equipment. This is expensive. The task to raise the funds is enormous. The Friends of the Palmer Public Library recognize this. And they are up for the challenge.
The Friends never had to fund-raise like this before. The nonprofit raised money for library activities like the Summer Reading Program, concerts, and literary events.
This allows the library staff to concentrate on day-to-day operations.
That changed in 2023. The library roof buckled and collapsed under the weight of heavy snow. The building was unsalvageable.
A new building needs to be built. A design for the new library was agreed upon after much debate. Further funds need to be raised. Palmer found itself with a steep hill to climb. That included the Friends of the Palmer Public Library.
I think I can. I think I can…
The Friends unveiled a fundraising campaign at the Palmer Chamber of Commerce luncheon yesterday. The campaign, “Palmer, The Little Engine that Could” is bigger than anything they’ve ever done. The Friends never had to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars before.
Friends past-president Janel Gagnon says they don’t have a monetary goal yet. They know the needs are substantial. Gagnon is confident the community will rise to the occasion.
The campaign runs between Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day. Gagnon believes that with love and luck it will make Palmer history by contributing to the building and the outfitting of the new library.
Everyone can contribute whether it’s a nickel or $500. Multiple opportunities will allow everyone to give something.
Gagnon said, “Everyone who wishes to be a contributor to the new library can be.”
More information about the campaign is coming to the Friends of the Palmer Public Library Facebook page.
Gagnon is proud of the artwork for their fundraising. Local artist Lynsey Dellinger donated art for the campaign branding. Dellinger’s prior work includes posters for the Alaska State Fair and Colony Christmas.
Gagnon said, “She’s created this amazing train that looks like the engine outside the Depot. And the train is literally coming off pages in a book. And the pages also look like fields. It’s beautiful.”
“The Little Engine That Could” is a story that resonates with many people.
The relationships the Friends have forged with local businesses about the new library has been exciting and helpful. Gagnon said, “We are grateful for their support.”
Gagnon credits local marketing business Alopex owner Kyle Fox for leading her to Dellinger.
AKtive Soles Performance Footwear owner Anne Thomas is helping with the campaign. She’s sponsoring The Palmer Dash for the Gold race on the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day. All the proceeds will go to the Friends to support the new library.
You can find the Friends of the Palmer Library at friendspplak.org and on Facebook.
I think I can. I think I can. I think I can…
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This Page Two article was written by David Cheezem and read by Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Thursday February 12, 2026.