The Rudyard Public Library has received an exact replica of the Declaration of Independence, the Mayflower Compact, and the complete Gettysburg Address, which were donated by longtime residents Margi and Riley Gaylor. Anew set of books about the items complements the display of American history.

The Gaylors bought the documents for the library because they wanted them and the history they contained to be shared with everyone, especially young people, to raise awareness of the Declaration of Independence and how it affects Americans' freedoms today. The Gaylors want students to be able to examine the documents close-up.

The Rudyard Friends of the Library bought a portfolio with plastic sleeves in which they could display the documents. Leonard "Cap" Tromblay donated two books, "Lives of the Signers" and "Wives of the Signers," which will be included in the portfolio. A third book, "The Declaration of Independence," was donated by teachers and staff. This collection can be loaned to anyone in the school district.

Library use continues to increase steadily.

The Rudyard Lions Club has donated $500 for the needs of the visually impaired.

Audio books are in high demand and a listening station will soon be added.

A recent inventory of library materials showed a large number

of missing books, which patrons can return through the outside drop box.

Library hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Summer hours will start Monday after school vacation starts. The school year ends

Wednesday, June 7. Hours and announcements will be posted at the library's Web site: http://rudyardareaschools@ eup.k12.mi.us; click onto the library tab.

The Rudyard Public Library is at Rudyard Area Schools on Second Street, and can be contacted by calling (906) 478-4504.

Riley and Margi Gaylor (center, holding up portfolio) of Rudyard presented replicas of the Declaration of Independence, Mayflower Compact, and Gettysburg Address to the Rudyard Public Library, represented by (far left) Mary Kay Aho, president of the Rudyard Friends of the Library, and Donna Porterfield, assistant librarian. Leonard "Cap" Tromblay (right of the Gaylors, holding books) donated a set of books to complement the items. (Photograph courtesy of Rudyard Public Library)