Augusta-Richmond County Public Library

Augusta-Richmond County Public Library. The library serves the city of Augusta, Georgia, and surrounding Richmond County, Georgia, providing access to a wide range of materials and resources, including books, Audiobooks, E-books, DVDs, and Databases. The library is a member of the Pine Ridge Regional Library System and participates in the Georgia Public Library Service program, which allows patrons to borrow materials from other libraries across the state, including the University of Georgia Libraries and the Georgia Institute of Technology Library. The library also partners with local organizations, such as the Augusta Museum of History and the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, to provide educational programs and events.

● History

The library has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century, when it was established as the Augusta Library Association. Over the years, the library has undergone several transformations, including a major renovation in the 1990s, which added a new wing to the building and increased the library's collection and services. The library has also been a part of several notable events, including the Civil Rights Movement, with figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks visiting the city. The library's history is also closely tied to the city's history, with notable figures such as James Brown and Jessye Norman contributing to the city's cultural landscape. The library has also been recognized for its contributions to the community, receiving awards from organizations such as the American Library Association and the Georgia Library Association.

● Collections and Services

The library's collection includes a wide range of materials, including books, Periodicals, Newspapers, and Microforms. The library also offers a variety of services, including Interlibrary loan programs, which allow patrons to borrow materials from other libraries, including the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library. The library's Reference services are also available, providing patrons with access to Research databases, such as JSTOR and EBSCO, and assistance from trained librarians, including those with expertise in Genealogy and Local history. The library also offers Computer classes and Technology training programs, in partnership with organizations such as the Microsoft Corporation and the Google Corporation. Additionally, the library provides access to E-government resources, including the USA.gov website and the Georgia.gov website.

● Branches and Locations

The library has several branches and locations throughout the city, including the Main Library and the Friedman Branch Library. The library also has a Bookmobile service, which provides access to library materials and services to patrons in outlying areas of the county, including the Hephzibah, Georgia and Blythe, Georgia communities. The library's branches are also located near other community organizations, such as the Augusta University and the Paine College, providing patrons with access to a wide range of resources and services. The library's locations are also convenient to local landmarks, such as the Savannah River and the Augusta National Golf Club.

● Programs and Events

The library offers a variety of programs and events for patrons of all ages, including Children's storytime and Teen programs, such as the Teen Summer Reading Program. The library also hosts Author readings and Book signings, featuring authors such as Toni Morrison and John Grisham. The library's Programs for adults include Computer classes and Job training programs, in partnership with organizations such as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and the Small Business Administration. The library also participates in community events, such as the Augusta Festival of the Arts and the Westobou Festival, and partners with local organizations, such as the Augusta Symphony Orchestra and the Morris Museum of Art, to provide cultural and educational programs. The library's programs and events are also recognized by organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Category:Libraries in Georgia