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ence, as the renovation project includes infrastructure modernization, expanded and reconfigured entrances, an enlarged meeting room (featuring a kitchen), an enhanced children’s area, new study rooms, and an enclosed outdoor patio.
“The overarching goal of the project is to update the building and modernize the infrastructure while preserving the beloved small-town library feeling and keeping it cozy,” Ohoopee Regional Library System Director Cameron Asbell remarked.
According to Asbell, the project is possible because of funding from the State of Georgia Legislature Capitol Projects allocations to the Georgia Public Library Services, the City of Lyons, and Toombs County. “This project would not be possible without the overwhelming support from the state and local government officials,” she assured.
She explained that there will be chances for community members to donate in honor or memory of someone to preserve their legacy at the library. “There will be naming opportunities within the building so local citizens can name rooms and areas to memorialize or honor loved ones or organizations. The library belongs to the citizens of Lyons and will be a special place to honor local legacies and all donations will go into purchasing books for the library and funding the programs,” Asbell emphasized.
She stated that DPR Architecure has been selected to provide design services for the remodel, while the construction manager has not yet been determined.
During the renovation, the current shelving, books, and technology will be moved and safely stored to save on the costs of new materials. New books will be added when the renovated facility reopens, but the books currently owned by the library will be incorporated with the newer titles. “By saving this funding, we can dedicate more towards improvements and be good stewards of funding,” she added.
The library will officially close its doors to the public on January 16, so that the renovation may begin.
In preparation for this closing, patrons with checked-out materials may utilize the library’s book drop while it remains available or return materials to the Dr. Mark and Tonya Spivey Public Library, located at – Jackson Street in Vidalia. No fines will accrue on materials checked out from the Nelle Brown Memorial Library during the closure.
The library staff also encourages patrons to stop by the facility prior to January 15 to share memories and bid farewell to the current space.
During the closure, the library staff will continue to serve the community through “pop-up programs” in partnership with the city of Lyons Welcome Center and local parks. These programs will allow patrons to check out books and to participate in the engaging activities that the library has become known for. These events will be announced through the newspaper and online on the Library’s social media channels and website.
'We are looking forward to being out and getting to know our partner organizations better while they host us as we 'pop up' for programming and with library books to check out,' Asbell said.
The library will continue to operate at its normal hours until January 16, Patrons can learn more about the progress of the renovation, including renderings, photos, and updates on the Ohoopee Regional Library System website. For more information, call (912) 537-9283.
