SEAGROVE — The Seagrove Public Library celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 9, with a fanfare of live music, hotdogs, and fond memories.
The event, which originally was going to be held outside, had to be moved into the library as some one hundred people showed up to express their support and gratitude for the occasion.
The Southwestern High School Choir opened the ceremony, singing “Down to the River to Pray” before continuing with several other songs.
Raffle tickets and t-shirts were available for purchase during the event, along with complimentary hot dogs and drinks for everyone in attendance.
“This community is very supportive; it’s unbelievable,” said Sue Spencer, a long-time library worker, “There’s every age and all types of people represented here. It’s wonderful.
The Seagrove Library first opened On May 11, 1973, in the Seagrove Grange Hall, located just south of the school on Old Plank Road. Some 60 volunteers worked tirelessly to make it happen, with Sarah Auman (Mrs. Hubert) being named the first Seagrove Librarian.
Supported by the Seagrove community of just 354 people at the time, eventually, the County took over operations of the library in 1973.
In 2004, The Randolph Board of Commissioners approved a $750,000 budget for a new library location and building. On Oct. 10, 2005, the new Seagrove Library opened at its present location.
“There’s so much to do at a library,” said Director of Randolph County Libraries, Ross Holt, “and we’re just delighted to celebrate Seagrove’s 50th anniversary.”
“It’s really hard for me to believe that it’s been 18 since we’ve opened this location,” said Richard Wells, a long-time major supporter of the library, “and everyone seems to really enjoy the Seagrove Library, and they use it. We’re just really thankful.”
Branch Librarian for the Seagrove Library, Charity Neave Johnson, said, “It’s really nice to hear from supporters and former employees and volunteers. I’m looking forward to the next fifty years of the Seagrove Library. We’re here for the community every day. Everyone is welcome to call, stop by, check out a book, or ask a question. We’re here to serve.”
The Seagrove Library is located at 530 Old Plank Rd, Seagrove.
