ALPENA — The Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library was awarded an Experience Support grant from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC), according to an Alpena Library press release on Wednesday.

The grant was awarded through the MACC compliance review process and was one of 678 applications to compete for MACC fiscal year 2026 funding, the release stated. This grant funded the purchase of 120 new chairs and a portable stage to be used in the Library’s programming spaces. The grant award was $12,009 and required a 25 percent funding match.

The Friends of the Alpena Library (FOL) provided the matching funds, according to the release.

According to the Alpena County Library, the library hosts an average of 180 events in the Judith Stillion Conference Room annually, including author discussions, musical performances, and cultural presentations.

Library Director Christina Markowski said that the new chairs will improve the library’s experience for visitors.

“Our chairs were well past their lifespan and uncomfortable, these newer chairs are lightweight, durable, and comfortable,” she said in the release. “The portable stage is a welcome enhancement and will improve program attendees’ ability to see performers and presenters.”

The MACC compliance review process ensures the taxpayers, who support this project through legislative appropriations, and all other visitors or residents in Michigan will have access to arts and cultural experiences, the release stated.

A complete list of grant awards around the state is available by contacting MACC at (517) 241-4011, or by visiting the MACC website at michigan.gov/arts.