You might think libraries have become places just for research or school reports. But for people in one Franklin County town, their library plays a huge part in their community. That's why they all pitched in to make it more accessible.

Students at Northfield Elementary School helped put the final touches on a nearly $900,000 library expansion. It seems like most everyone in town has lent a hand to build an addition that is handicap friendly. The elevator, stairwell, fire alarms and accessible bathroom were necessities for the 111 year old library. "There are a lot of elderly people in town that couldn't access the library using the stairs," says Northfield resident Carla Simpson.

But getting the funds they needed wasn't easy. About 4 years ago the board of trustees applied for a federal grant but were denied. They tried again two years later and got the money they needed. "Between $650,000 and $700,000 came from a community development grant and the other $200,000 came from the town," said Library Director Deb Kern.

Everyone from the garden club to the town's energy committee donated something. And there's a story behind many of the things they did, like the window bench in the children's room which was donated by a woman in memory of her son who passed away.

The finished library is more than just full of books, it also holds a lot of community spirit. "I think its nice to be involved in a community effort no matter what it is," said Simpson.