The importance of an active library in a small-town setting is vital for the development and growth of our youth.

The LaGrange Memorial Library doesn’t fall short of that mark by any means as it is consistently coming up with new programs to engage children and adults weekly. Last week, the library announced that students read more than 8,000 books this summer through the program, which included children from throughout the county, including 79 Hollis Hand students, 62 Rosemont students, 41 Hillcrest students, 41 Franklin Forest students and about 100 homeschool students.

We understand that some of the books could be as little as 10 pages, but the length of the books shouldn’t overshadow the importance to these children being involved in the community and taking an active step in reading. It doesn’t matter if it a book, newspaper or a magazine, reading can only bring positives for youth children with developing brains.

As for the library itself, we are proud to know it doesn’t just sit still and let people walk through its doors on its own. It actively seeks out individuals to take part in programming for children and adults of all ages.

One example is the weekly story time program hosted by the library. Even during the school year, the program regularly sees a crowd of young readers filling the children’s section.

That is not to mention groups that meet regularly like the Crafty Lunch Crew and the Lunch and Learn events through the UGA Extension Service.

The point is that a local library is so much more than a place with books. It is a lifeblood of a community. Looking for something for the kids to do during the summer when school is out? Check the library. Starved for information about your local community? We’re willing to bet our local librarians will help any way they can. 

We trust the library will keep up the solid work in providing resources and activities to Troup County, and we hope the residents of the county show up to support the library as well.