Unveiling the Transformative Impact of the New Clinton Library Building with Groundbreaking Ceremony

History was made in Clinton on Thursday July 20 as members of the community gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Clinton Library. It was a hot sunny morning but that didn’t damper the enthusiasm for the much anticipated new library that will be in the heart of downtown Clinton. The event brought together community members, dignitaries, and library enthusiasts to celebrate the beginning of a new era for the town’s cultural and educational landscape.

“It takes a library to raise a community,” said Renita Barksdale, library director. “We have outlived the current location and it is time for a new space that will serve the needs of the community. The library is a place for everyone with many opportunities to educate, empower and entertain.”

The new 11,000 square-foot facility is poised to be a groundbreaking project in more ways than one. As a small town, Clinton recognizes the crucial role of public libraries in fostering community growth, providing access to information, and empowering its residents with knowledge and opportunities. The forthcoming library will be a beacon of light, offering a diverse range of services and resources that cater to the needs of its residents.

Public libraries serve as intellectual hubs, encouraging a love for learning and exploration, nurturing creativity, and bridging the digital divide. In an age of rapid technological advancement, access to information is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Libraries play a vital role in ensuring that all members of the community have equal access to knowledge and technology.

The Clinton Library will go above and beyond traditional notions of libraries by providing a multitude of services tailored to the unique requirements of the town’s residents. Of course, at the heart of the library’s services will be a vast collection of books catering to readers of all ages and interests.

Moreover, the library will boast modern amenities, including meeting spaces, allowing local clubs, organizations, and community groups to hold gatherings, workshops, and events. These meeting spaces will serve as a catalyst for collaboration and idea-sharing among Clinton’s vibrant community.

Recognizing the significance of technology in the contemporary world, the library will offer access to computers and high-speed internet, ensuring that even those without such resources at home can participate fully in the digital age. Patrons will be able to connect with the world, seek employment opportunities, and further their education through online courses.

Advancing Knowledge with the Maker Space

One of the most exciting aspects of the Clinton Library will be its dedicated science space. This area will provide opportunities for students of all ages to engage their minds and nurture the interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The library aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers from within the community. Future plans include having a 3-D printer and much more for hands on interactive learning.

A Partnership with USC Union Campus

In a testament to the library’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, the Clinton Library has established a partnership with the nearby University of South Carolina Union (USC Union) campus. Through this association, USC Union is already providing tablets and laptops for students to use with no time limit to facilitate the completion of their coursework (Apple computers).

The new facility will replace the current location of 20 years that was meant to be temporary. The project is anticipated to take a year to complete. It is funded by the county’s 2020 capital project sales tax.