The fundraiser started by Guthrie County Quality Meats (GCQM) has grown, and the Mary J Barnett Memorial Library is excited to see the support.

Library Director Jerri Hawkins says that when she heard about the fundraiser, she was very appreciative of the support. “Brats and Brews” first started with GCQM, and they decided that 15 percent of all their skinless and skinned brat sales for the month of May would be donated to the seven libraries in Guthrie County. Hawkins shares more on how that feeling grew when the number of businesses taking part grew to three.

“It is so heartwarming and it’s so great to see such kindness and thoughtfulness from our community and to support the libraries in such an amazing way. It reminds me of why I love small town life and I am just so thankful for them for supporting us and seeing what we do and appreciating everything that the small libraries provide to these communities.”

GCQM owner Grant Sheeder says that just after they began the fundraiser, Fox Countertops in Panora pledged to match whatever GCQM donated, and not long after that, Local Liquor in Panora pledged $4 from every sale of a case of Busch Light during the month of May as well. Brats can be purchased in store at GCQM or online, while brews can be purchased in store at Local Liquor. There is also a Venmo account set up by GCQM specifically for those who may not be a fan of brats, but still want to donate to help.