by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
When the Main Library at Laura and Monroe streets opened in November 2005, it replaced the Haydon Burns Library a few blocks away and ushered in a new era of educational and recreational resources for Jacksonville residents of all ages and interests.
Having the new library has opened many opportunities to serve all segments of the community, said Jacksonville Public Library Deputy Director Carolyn Shehee Williams.
“We have so many more materials and services available and we have more of what we already had, like computers,” she said.
The community has taken advantage of the increase in resources. The last year the Haydon Burns was open, 328,592 people visited the library. In the past year, more than 883,000 people have passed through the doors at the Main Library. Material loaned, including books, CDs and DVDs, increased from 341,800 in 2004-2005 to 989,073 last year.
“During these economic times, the library offers products and services people might not otherwise have and the community has definitely responded. The library is about quality of life and we’re able to combine all cultures,” said Williams.
Constructed and outfitted with $95 million from the Better Jacksonville Plan, the Main Library became the flagship of the public library system. Its first five years of operation will be celebrated with special programs and events that begin Saturday and wrap up Friday with a reception in the Betsy Lovett Courtyard. For all the details, visit www.jpl.coj.net
356-2466