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Jones County Library reports booming summer programs, asks county to consider long-term space needs
Summary
Library director reported record summer attendance, 1,112 summer reading sign-ups and requests for future expansion or added activity space as programs have outgrown current facilities.
The Jones County Public Library told commissioners on July 1 that summer reading and community programs have surged and that the library needs more activity space to accommodate attendees.
Library director Gina King said the library saw 4,272 visitors in June — about 215 per day — and that 1,112 people had signed up for summer reading so far. She said the library’s partnerships with local organizations are driving turnout and that many programs now exceed available indoor capacity.
"In June, we had 4,272 people come in the door at the library. That's around 215 a day," King told the board. She said one event drew more than 400 people and that a recent outdoor art kickoff attracted about 350 participants.
King listed community partners helping run programs: Family Connection, the Board of Education, Head Start, Kiwanis Club, Tri County EMC, Friends of the Library, Jones County Special Olympics, the City of Grey, Exchange Bank, Robins Federal, Grama Memorial Chapel and Ace of Grey. She outlined a steady weekly schedule of children’s and adult programming — STEAM kits, art classes, movie matinees, a recycled-fashion show, science and pollinator events, and story times tied to the county’s early‑childhood initiatives.
Library staff said they have added two part‑time positions and still need additional staffing to support demand. King asked the board to consider long‑term facility options; she said an off‑the‑shelf solution could be a large activity room adjacent to the current library footprint to host children’s activities, adult programs and community meetings without altering the existing library building.
King noted the library’s role as a community center and encouraged commissioners and residents to visit: "If you haven't come to the library, anybody listen to this, y'all are missing out because it is really ... we have the outdoor areas for picnicking and then butterfly garden and then inside, we just got so much going on every day." She also said the library will seek a ballot-based funding opportunity she referred to as “SWASH” to support expansion planning.
The report was provided during the regular meeting’s department updates; commissioners acknowledged the library’s growth and asked staff to consider how county planning and budgeting can support long‑range facility needs.
