The Rutherford County Library is pleased to be one of the 21 recipients of a 2011 Facebook-Rutherford Community Action Grant.  Facebook received more than 80 applications for the $200,000 total distribution.

The grant will be used to build a new teen area in the main library, plus provide the first year of events.  A section of the existing library on Callahan-Koon Rd. in Spindale has been set aside, but funding has not been available to purchase furniture, computers, or special events.  The current Children’s Librarian, Jeannie Smith, will expand her role to include Teen Services as well.

“We are very excited about the new teen program,” says Mrs. Smith.  “The generous Facebook grant will enable teenagers to have a safe, fun, wholesome, educational place to congregate where they will be exposed to books, computers, and guidance, as well as to build new friendships and help establish a life-long interest in reading.”

The new teen center will be established along the back wall of the current reference room.  Rolling bookcases and bulletin boards will section off the café tables and chairs.  All furniture will be portable to allow for flexibility during the Summer Reading Program, and plans are to have it up and running within three months.