City of Villa Rica, GA » Library History

Library History	you are here: DEPARTMENTS » LIBRARY » Library History
Curious about the history of the Villa Rica Public Library? Following is a timeline of important events that helped to shape the library into the state-of-the-art information center it is today. 1973 - First library opens in the old Powell-Berry-Powell Medical Center with Carrie Penrose Holloway serving as the first librarian. The library is the result of work by a group of citizens interested in securing a library for the city. In October, Ruth Moore joins the library staff. Liz Candler, library board chairman, asks board members to be conscious of long-range plans which included searching for library for a new library building. 1977 - Madelyn Morgan becomes new library board chairman. Board discusses expansion by opening up other rooms in the building for library use. 1978 - Library board discusses plans for expanding the building to create an area for reference materials. Motion is made to adopt an expansion program and seek help from the West Georgia Regional Library System and the city. Also during the year, Holloway resigns as manager and is replaced by Madelyn Morgan who was to oversee library operations of two day a week for four hours a day. 1981 - Board members discuss need for more library space again. Reported that the West Georgia Regional Library System was looking at Villa Rica as a possible site for a new library. 1983 - The tenth year of library operation and the city assists in opening more rooms in the building for library use. November 13 was selected as the library anniversary date. 1988 - Jim Cooper, director of the West Georgia Regional Library system, speaks to the VR board about how to set up a building fund for a new library. Several months later the board votes to set aside $9,000 from present funds to establish a building fund. Madelyn Morgan resigns as manager and Shirley Tanner takes her place. In October, City Manager Robert Barr presents the board with a detailed drawing of the proposed site of a new library. The city planned to hold a bond referendum of the December ballot which would include financing a new library. 1989 - City Manager briefs VR board about the bond issue and suggested the board get building plans and select an architect. Jim Cooper tells the board that plans are proceeding for a building program. Board selects Walden, Ashworth and Associates of Marietta to design the building. 1990 - Blueprints for a new library are received in April. Board meets with architect and interior designer to selected interior color scheme. 1991 - Bids for new library accepted. Shirley Tanner resigns as manager and is replaced by Suzanne Watson. The manager's job is approved by the city to become a full-time position. Groundbreaking for the new building held Thursday, February 21. 1992 - Library moves from Carroll Road facility to 70 Horace Luther Drive. Facility opened to the public on Monday, January 13. Formal Open House and Dedication ceremonies set for Sunday, April 5th.

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