Adam Webb, Executive Director of GC Library, enjoys a peaceful moment in the beautiful new “Garden County Library.” Photo credit: Erin Baber
By Erin Baber
The Garland County Library was forever changed within three days in early June. On Thursday, June 8, the library’s newest branch was delivered – a brand new full-size bookmobile. And on Saturday, June 10, the Community Garden and Park, which I lovingly call “Garden County Library” was opened to the public.
Both of these projects have been years in the making and have incurred their fair share of challenges and triumphs.
Work began on the bookmobile in 2020 when a combination of federal grant money and community financial support came together to fully fund the bookmobile – thanks to generous donations from the Oaklawn Foundation, Millie Gore Lancaster and Maestro Wilson, and the Friends of the Garland County Library. Funding the bookmobile became the easiest part as the project saw delay after delay due to pandemic shortages and challenges. Finally, the bookmobile became a reality and the library’s Adult Services Department is excited to iron out all the details of the bookmobile’s services. Look for announcements coming soon about the bookmobile.
The library officially broke ground on ‘Garden County Library’ in late 2022. The vacant lot between the library’s upper parking lot and the RIX Professional Building went through a complete revitalization and is now a greening park and upcoming community garden. Over a hundred library friends and neighbors gathered to witness the wildflower-ribbon cutting at the grand opening on June 10. Forty raised beds will be available to patrons to ‘check out’ during the fall planting season. Watch for more details to be announced.
Learn more about the Garland County Library. Go to www.gclibrary.com, call 501-623-4161, or visit the library in-person at 1427 Malvern Avenue in Hot Springs for more information about the library’s services and offerings.
Erin Baber is Library Marketing Manager at the Garland County Library.
