The Fort Dodge Public Library entered the 21st century with a proud tradition of community service and a spectacular new home at 424 Central Ave., which was completed in 2001. The 32,000-square-foot building is an architectural gem. By its very existence and location, it is a testament to the community’s commitment to a rebirth of Central Avenue as an important part of the game plan for the decades ahead. The library has a collection with just under 100,000 volumes, which includes books, books on CDs and cassettes, large-print books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, CDs, videos, puppets and microfilm records of The Messenger. It also features an assortment of online databases. There are computer work stations, a variety of software and Internet access. The library’s Children’s Department orchestrates innovative programs that are highly popular with not only the kids, but also parents and educators. The library building houses the Karl L.