It’s not every day Dallas County commissioners receive T-shirts and balloons. Then again, it’s not every year the library celebrates its 100-year anniversary.

Selma-Dallas County Library Director Becky Nichols delivered not only T-shirts and balloons to commissioners at their Monday meeting, but also new centennial library cards. &uot;I kicked off the centennial at the commission’s meeting,&uot; Nichols said. &uot;I wanted to make them aware of what we’re doing, and I’m asking them for an investment. I’m appreciative of their support.&uot; Nichols asked the commission for $5,000. At the Selma City Council’s Jan. 26 meeting she plans on asking the same of council members.

The commission granted Nichols’ request and voted unanimously in favor of providing the funds. Donations from city and county governments will be the first stage of a fund-raiser expected to kick off in April. Nichols hopes to raise $100,000 during the library’s 100-year anniversary. Each $1,000 raised is for one year of the library’s existence.

Funds gained will be used to expand the library’s book collection, new technology, children’s programs and adult education. &uot;We’re celebrating 1904 to 2004; a job well done,&uot; Nichols said. &uot;But we’re thinking about 2004 and beyond. That’s what this is for.&uot;