History of the Oak Grove Public Library
Information Provided by Alisa St. Amant & Stella Wheat
According to the U. S. Census, the population of Lamar County grew by 28.4 percent from 1990 to 2000. Just prior to the opening of the Oak Grove Public Library, the estimated population was 41,957, and half of this number resided in the Oak Grove Community. The nearest public libraries were located in Purvis, Sumrall or Hattiesburg . Former Lamar County Library System Director (1997-2003), Stella Wheat, recognized immediately that “20,000 people were being under-served by public libraries.”
In 1999 Stella Wheat and former County Planner , Alana Abney wrote grants totaling $560,000. The $500,000 grant funds were used for construction, and the other $60,000 funds were to purchase furniture and equipment. Sixty percent of the building funds were provided by taxpayers, and the Board of Supervisors provided 40 percent matching funds. Money was also donated by private individuals and obtained through Friends group fundraising efforts (Engraved Bricks Project).
In November 2001 the land for the library was cleared and Landry and Lewis Architects prepared building plans. Instead of a traditional groundbreaking ceremony, a time capsule was placed in the front entrance on April 10, 2003.
The 7,000 square foot facility was completed in October of 2003. While design elements from several public libraries were used, the Oak Grove Branch is unique because it draws upon the region's railroad history.
Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting ceremonies took place on Saturday, November 8, 2003. Activities included an unveiling of the Children's Room mural. Professional actor, Gary Grubbs and his wife, and Dr. and Mrs. Aubrey K. Lucas read stories to children. Drawings were held throughout the day for door prizes donated by Oak Grove Community businesses. Since the opening, the library receives an average of 2,000 visits per month and averages 4,000 during June due to Summer Reading.
Upon celebration of its two-year anniversary in 2005, the first phase of the Friend's original fund-raiser, Educational Enrichment Brick Project , was completed. Engraved, decorative bricks honoring local residents and businesses were placed around the flagpole. This ongoing project continues to provide financial support towards library services and resources. (more)