(L-R) Kelly Keisling, Terri Lynn Weavers, and Mae Beavers look on as Tre Hargett gives a few words.

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Back row, L-R: State Rep. Kelly Kiesling, TN Sec. of State Tre Hargett, Lafayette Mayor Richard Driver, Chamber President Jonathan West. Front row, L-R: Library Board Chairman J.B. Howser, Board member Julia Burrow, Board member Nancy Doss, County Mayor Shelvy Linville, State Rep. Terri Lynn Weaver, State Sen. Mae Beavers, Board Vice Chair Frances Darnell, Board member GeorgiaAnn Boles, Mike Wells, Board member and RBS City Councilman George McCrary.

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An illustration of the finished library building.

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The Macon County Public Library recently received a $100,000 grant from the state to help fund a building expansion and other improvements. The grant funds are administered by the Tennessee State Library and Archives, which is part of the Secretary of State’s office.

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett presented the $100,000 check to the library in a special celebration on Wednesday, which was attended by a crowd that included State Representatives Weaver and Keisling, State Senator Beavers, Lafayette Mayor Driver, Macon County Mayor Linville, City Council members from both RBS and Lafayette, County Commissioners, and many other business and community leaders.

“It’s obvious how much this community loves this library,” said Hargett. “I’ve been here four times for different reasons—that says a lot. I’m very excited about what you’ll be able to do with this library.”

He went on to commend legislature for showing their support by keeping this item in the budget, as well as acknowledging several individuals, such as Nancy Doss, who were instrumental in securing the grant. Finally, overcome for a moment by emotion, Hargett finished, “I’m speechless—I’m glad to be a part of the day.”

Library Board member Nancy Doss then thanked everyone profusely on the behalf of the building committee, and gave a brief overview of the plans in motion for the library improvements. The 1,442-square-foot expansion will include a multi-purpose room with a kitchenette, a large storage/work area and an expanded foyer. There will also be upgrades to the library’s roof, restrooms and heating and cooling system. More parking will also be added as part of the renovation.

“I certainly want to commend everyone who ran with this,” said State Rep. Terri Lynn Weaver. “I’m honored to be one of the team members, to see these things acheived. This library is a true hub of community.”

State Rep. Kelly Keisling commended Hargett’s role in securing the grant for the library. “I want to tell you something,” said Keisling. “We have the very best Secretary of State of all 50—I appreciate him very much.”

Construction on the library is schedule to begin in the next few weeks.