Since 1973, the Gritters Library has attracted a loyal group of patrons who couldn't wait to return after the pandemic eased.  All the love over the decades has worn out the library near Cobb's Shaw Park.  But a new and improved facility is on the way.

The Board of Commissioners accepted a $1.9 million grant from the Georgia Public Library Service as the final piece of funding to replace the aging structure with a new library building on the same site.  Already included in the 2016 SPLOST program, it became apparent that plans to renovate the structure would not be enough.  Commissioners included additional funding in the SPLOST "revenue above projections" list to help replace the building.

Library Director Helen Poyer says the new building will feature a larger multipurpose room for public and library use; reading and study rooms; indoor/outdoor book drops; dedicated children’s area; computer training lab; moveable stacks; outdoor programming/reading space; ample parking; flexible space to accommodate programs/services; and one service desk.

Groundbreaking is set for this December, but we're not yet sure when the branch will close and how long construction will take.  Library patrons will be directed to other nearby branches, and the Library's Bookmobile will be dispatched to locations throughout the community during the closure.