CLAYTON, N.C. – One month after reopening, the renovated Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library is already showing what happens when a community embraces its library.
During its first month back at 100 South Church Street, library staff issued 722 new library cards, the highest monthly total recorded in the last 20 years. The milestone comes just weeks after the library reopened on July 6 following a year-long renovation while services continued from a temporary location.
For many residents, a library card is the first step to discovering everything today’s library has to offer. Along with books and digital collections, cardholders have access to public computers, online resources, free programs, study rooms, meeting spaces, and other services designed to support learning, creativity, and connection.
“Every library card represents a person who chose to say, ‘This place is for me,’” said Library Manager Melissa Poole. “Some families are visiting for the very first time while others are returning after years away. No matter how they find us, each card is the beginning of a relationship, and we are honored they chose to start that journey with us.”…