More to the Story with Staley: Library Gift

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — “Santa Claus” came early this week to the Chattanooga Public Library. That is, if one can call the state of Tennessee “Santa Claus!”

Lots of important people gathered at the Chattanooga Public Library.

City Mayor Tim Kelly standing alongside Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett. State Senator Bo Watson is on the scene as well. Along with a number of public library officials.

All here for this!

“This extra amount can’t be counted on each year. That’s something we were able to achieve through savings. And we’re glad to be able to do it!” said Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett.

Extra money indeed. Not only did the public library receive its annual allotment from the state, but as Hargett says, there was a little extra “somethin’ – somethin'” in the cookie jar from state savings. All totaled, over $580,000.

“The library is a community catalyst for lifelong learnings. That’s our motto. We’re doing very well,” Interim Library Executive Director Jason Sullivan said. “Last month, we crossed over a million circulations. You know, there’s always something exciting going on at the library. I hope everybody will take advantage of it and come on down.”

The library can do whatever it wants with the extra cash. As long as it goes towards the books and the electronic materials.

Hargett says a facility such as our library, actually all libraries, deserves it!

“It’s critical. Libraries need a strong collection. This library right here is known for many things. It’s so much more than a collection of books. But still, people expect to see a strong collection. Electronically as well. This library is doing just that!” Hargett said.

The library has known for a while that the money was coming. In fact, it’s already been spent. Primarily on digital content.