‘A place to learn’
Richmond Hill celebrates expansion of library
Samantha Moose stood in front of the crowd all smiles as she delivered news residents in Richmond Hill have been waiting to hear.
The Richmond Hill-Bryan County Public Library has finally reopened.
“I'm absolutely excited and amazed that we have this opportunity right now,” said Moose, the library manager. “I want everybody to come and see it and if they don't have a library card, they should get one.
According to Moose, initial talks of expanding the library, which is part of the Statesboro Regional Library System, began some 10 years ago but only took a year for the whole process to get going. The project cost nearly $4 million, to include $1.5 million coming from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds and $2 million from the state.
The space underwent major renovations, as an additional 2,000 square feet was added to include staff offices, a meeting area, study rooms, a children's area and a nursing room.
“The explosion in growth is coming and this is what people are going to need,” said State Legislature Ron Stephens, who represents a portion of Bryan County. “It's a place to congregate, meet and learn.”
Moose went on to say the library is a vital aspect of the community as it serves as a place of inclusiveness.
“The library is a place for everyone,” said Moose. “Everybody is welcome here. I try to make sure we have books for everyone here. One of the saddest things is when somebody walks out without a book. I just think that everybody should see themselves here in a book, whether it be nonfiction, fiction, children's or young adult. I am so excited we have this new building. The public really loves it.”