WATERVILLE -- A $75,000 donation from Colby College has pushed Waterville Public Library closer to its goal of raising $3.1 million to finance a major renovation of the century-old library.

"I think it is wonderful that Colby realizes the importance of a public library," library director Sarah Sugden said.

The Colby pledge is the largest contribution the library has received from an educational institution and brings the campaign total to $2.2 million, 71 percent of the amount targeted.

Those involved with the campaign hope to begin renovating the building next spring.

Campaign co-chair Suanne Muehlner said that timetable is within reach.

"I think if we can raise another $600,000," she said, "that would give us enough to cover basic building (renovation) costs, and we can get started."

The city of Waterville provided a big boost last month when it approved $1.5 million in funding for the project.

Planned improvements include the creation of a new sidewalk-level entrance on Appleton Street that will better connect the library to downtown and be more convenient for parking.

The project also includes the addition of an elevator to make the building accessible for disabled patrons, as well as updates on heating and ventilation systems, energy-efficient lighting, a new roof and general upgrades and renovations of interior space.

Colby President William D. "Bro" Adams, in a statement, stressed the college's partnership with Waterville and applauded the plan to invest in the library.

"The planned improvement should bolster an already strong library program," he said, "and I'm particularly excited about the way the building will be redesigned. The new entrance facing the Concourse and Main Street area should help energize Waterville's downtown. So, for Colby this is an investment in a vibrant downtown, which is important to the college, as well as an investment to strengthen a resource that is important to the families of Colby employees, to our students, and to the people of Waterville."

Colby's contribution to the library project goes far beyond the monetary donation.

Co-chairs Muehlner and Jay Violette both have strong Colby ties.

Muehlner was director of the college's three libraries from 1981 to 2004, while Violette is a 1981 Colby graduate.

Sugden said Colby students are well aware of the library, too.

"For those hundred of students on Mayflower Hill," she said, "this is their public library. And certainly I have seen an increase in the number of students coming to the library because of Colby's public outreach initiative."

Sugden said Colby students rely on their college libraries for most academic research material.

But when it comes to picking up novels for personal reading, Sugden said they often visit Waterville Public Library.

Colin Hickey -- 861-9205

chickey@centralmaine.com