Pender County Library project secures $500K from Topsail Township Friends

In the heart of Pender County, excitement buzzed through the air as the Board of County Commissioners convened to discuss significant developments in community projects. Among the highlights was the much-anticipated update on the Hampstead branch library, a project that has garnered substantial community support and funding.

Alan Phillips Bell, the director of Pender County Library, opened the discussion by acknowledging the Topsail Township Friends of the Library, who have committed a remarkable $500,000 towards the library's construction. This generous contribution is part of a larger $1.6 million raised through community donations, underscoring the local commitment to enhancing educational resources.

John Sawyer and Scott Spike from Sawyer Sherwood and Associates presented the latest updates on the library's design and construction plans. The new facility, strategically located adjacent to the government annex in Hampstead, will feature a modern design with a focus on accessibility and community engagement. The library is set to expand from its current 7,800 square feet to an impressive 20,000 square feet, accommodating a larger collection and more meeting spaces, which have been a priority voiced by residents during public input sessions.

The design incorporates innovative features, including a mass timber structure that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. The library will also include self-checkout kiosks and a self-service hold pickup area, enhancing user experience and accessibility. The project is currently navigating the permitting process, with expectations to begin construction by the end of the year and complete it by early spring 2027.

In addition to the library update, the commissioners received progress reports on Central Pender Park and the Hampstead Kiwanis Park. Bishop Williams from Waters Construction reported that Central Pender Park is on track, with completion expected by September 11, despite some weather-related delays. Meanwhile, Matthew Williamson from Timeless Construction shared that the Kiwanis Park project is ahead of schedule, with substantial completion now anticipated in July.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed their commitment to ensuring these projects not only meet current community needs but also anticipate future growth. The discussions highlighted a shared vision for a vibrant, resource-rich environment that fosters learning, recreation, and community connection in Pender County.