History

  In 1933, a circulating library was established under the C. W. A. It was housed in a store building located where Best Way Grocery Store stood. Books and magazines were collected and donated. Money to buy books was raised through entertainment projects. After W.P.A. was discontinued, the library at Sumrall was closed.

             In 1958, through the efforts of the Mississippi Library Commission's promotion of library service, Lamar County joined Pine Forest Regional Library System.

             The Town of Sumrall gave approval for the library to be housed above the present jail in the room where the town meetings were held monthly. Nine hours of service per week were offered.

             From 1965 through August 1969, the Town of Sumrall donated $20 a month to the library for books.

             In October 1974, the present library was opened and dedicated to Mr. L. R. Boyer, Supervisor of District Five at that time. The Honorable Winter F. Winter was guest speaker at the dedication.

             The building was constructed with funds from District Five of Lamar County, the Town of Sumrall, Pine Forest Regional Library System, private donations, and the Library Service and Construction Act.

             In October of 1997 the Board of Supervisors created the Lamar County Library System with the Sumrall (L. R. Boyer Memorial Library) being one of the three branches at the time.

(Information Provided by Charlie Scruggs)

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