McDONOUGH – With the smell of fresh paint in the air and books on the shelves, members of the McDonough Improvement Committee (MIC) are counting down the hours to the opening of the new McDonough Library and Calvary Community Center.

After nearly two years of fundraising and countless volunteer hours, the new facility could officially open its doors to the public within the next two weeks.

“We’re waiting for our fire inspection and can’t set a positive date till that happens,” said Elinor Troicke, publicity chair for the MIC. Local volunteers, including the McDonough Volunteer Fire Department, will gather from 6 to 8 p.m. this Wednesday to clear brush from around the building. According to Troicke, this is the last step before the inspection takes place.

In preparation for the impending opening, library volunteers gathered Monday for a training session with Oxford Memorial Library Director Nancy Wilcox.

There was an undercurrent of excitement in the room as volunteers learned how to issue library cards, check out books and perform the other tasks necessary to the operation of a library. “We are getting closer and closer,” said library volunteer Helen Schwager.

The new library will open as a branch of the Oxford Memorial Library which, according to Troicke, was the only way of making the project a reality. “To be chartered you need a certified librarian and at least be open 20 hours a week,” said Troicke, “As a branch, we can do it with all volunteers.” McDonough’s location within the Oxford school district makes this possible.