Donation center opens in Cook

COOK- The Cook Lions Flood Recovery Donation Center in the former Franks Pharmacy building is open for business with limited hours daily.
Staffed by volunteers and open from 10 a.m.-noon and 5-7 p.m., the center offers free cleaning supplies, loaner cleaning equipment, and donated household items for those affected by the flood.
Those who come to the center will be asked to provide proof of residency in the 55723 or 55703 zip codes to ensure donations are being directed to Cook-related flood relief. The Lions Club asks that people take only what they need. Items are available on a first come, first served basis, and no holds are allowed. Individuals must load claimed items themselves due to liability issues. Please refrain from asking volunteers for loading assistance.
The center is accepting donations of clean and fully functional used household items, including the following: household appliances, kitchen furniture, dining furniture, living room furniture, and bedroom furniture; kitchen items; boxed dish sets and flatware; and linens and towels. Those making donations must unload items themselves, again due to liability concerns.
Questions about availability of items or suitability of an item you wish to donate can be directed to Colette at 612-213-7603 or Caroline at 218-348-1844.

Library offers limited services

COOK- The Cook Public Library is back in operating on a limited basis, with some services having resumed on Monday.
Patrons can now pick up and check out books, use the printing, copying and fax services, get information and reference service, use the book drop, and access a Wi-Fi connection outside the building.
No timeline has yet been set for when the library will again provide patrons with access to seating areas, public computers, public restrooms, the meeting room, newspapers, puzzles, and story time.
Cook Community Center will serve as the site for two upcoming library programs. Will Hale and the Tadpole Parade will be on Monday, July 22 at 10:30 a.m., while Peregrine Falcons and Other Raptors will be on Wednesday, July 31 at 10 a.m.
The hours for limited services are Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
If you have questions, please email crystal.whitney@alslib.info.
The city learned last week that the cost to repair the library's flood damage will be covered 75 percent by FEMA infrastructure funding. Additional money will likely be forthcoming from the state's disaster assistance fund. No date has been set for when the library is expected to be fully open.