The Belgate Community Library Advisory Board welcomed a presentation from NTRAC, a local model railroad club, regarding a potential display at the library. The club, which has been operating in the Gallatin Valley since 2007, specializes in N-scale model trains displayed on modular two-by-four-foot sections that can be configured from a compact six-foot circle to a full room-size layout. The board expressed enthusiasm for the flexible setup, which could tie into community events and reading programs. Library Director Erin Howard raised practical questions about security for unattended displays, which the club indicated they manage through rope barriers and nightly train removal. No formal vote was taken, but the consensus was clearly favorable, with the board agreeing to coordinate next steps.
The Foundation Board reported strong financial health, with approximately $70,094 in cash accounts and a DA Davidson investment account holding $347,416. The Foundation is working toward a one-million-dollar investment goal that would eventually generate predictable annual funding for the library through five-percent distributions. This year's Give Big fundraising campaign will include a three-hour family-friendly kickoff event on April 30th, featuring partner organizations and community activities.
Library Director Howard highlighted impressive growth during the facility's first year, with monthly visitor counts consistently exceeding 10,000—a dramatic increase from the previous location's typical four-to-nine-thousand monthly visitors. The library's new "library of things" collection has expanded significantly, including two high-value Gibson guitars donated by Bozeman Rotary Club worth $3,000 and $2,000, along with karaoke machines, Cricut equipment, sewing machines, and a 3D printer. The library will celebrate its one-year anniversary on April 3rd with a community event featuring food trucks, live music, an Easter egg hunt, and activities throughout the day. The next board meeting is scheduled for May 26th at 5:30 p.m.