Thirty years ago, on Nov. 21, 1992, both Millhopper Branch and Tower Road Branch opened for the first time. The Grand Opening celebration was held at 10 a.m. for Tower Road Branch and at 12 p.m. for Millhopper Branch. The branches were identical in design and boasted 15,000 sq. ft. of space. Both locations were open Monday-Thursday and Saturday for a total of 40 hours a week.
It quickly became apparent that the branches were going to be quite popular. Weekly story times for children launched by 1993 and attendance surpassed more than 50 people per event. All this newfound popularity was a challenge for the 6.5 staff members at each branch and staff were lucky to have an army of dedicated volunteers to assist with shelving and check-in of materials.
Long-time residents will not be surprised to hear that each branch has experienced tremendous population growth in nearby neighborhoods. New schools, new shopping centers, and many new homes have sprung up across the county. 1992 was just the beginning of the modern computer era at the library. These days patrons have access to computers, 24/7 wireless Internet, streaming video through hoopla, as well as printing and scanning services.
Between 2008-2010, Millhopper Branch moved to a temporary location while an expansion and renovation occurred. The renovation resulted in a building of 23,500 sq. ft. and added a themed children’s area and playground, Quiet Reading Room, and much-needed additional seating. Over time, the branch has also added an enclosed Teen Space and three Study Rooms. Millhopper has steadily grown over the years and is currently the busiest location in both visitor count and the number of library materials checked out.
In 2016-2018, Tower Road Branch enjoyed its own temporary location during a renovation and expansion. At reopening, the branch had a matching 23,500 sq. ft. and featured a large Quiet Reading Room, three Study Rooms, Teen Space, expanded Meeting Room with a kitchen, and a fenced-in garden area. Tower Road currently is the second busiest location in visitor count and library materials checked out.
Today, Tower Road and Millhopper branches are open every day of the week for a total of 55 hours. Staff present weekly programs for children, teens, and adults and answer hundreds of questions in person, online, and over the telephone.
While the pandemic years brought new challenges to patron services, we are proud of all the ways we were able to serve our communities through virtual programs, computer appointments, outreach events, and outside services.
Now, as we look toward the future, we can't wait to see what the next 30 years bring!
