The Johnson County Public Library is receiving a $100,000 Library Construction Grant from the Tennessee State Library and Archives to expand its current facility.

Over time, expanding stacks have minimized the amount of space available for patrons to read or use their devices to get online. With the help of this grant, the library staff plans to create a 911-square-foot addition at the front of the building which will create necessary, usable area.

“Libraries are an important hub for our communities to learn and grow together,” said Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “I am pleased this grant will allow for the Johnson County Public Library to expand, giving them the space they need to continue to succeed.”

“Congratulations to the local officials who have secured this funding. The Johnson County Public Library goes above and beyond the traditional role of a library,” said Sen. Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol). “The library works hard to not only provide educational opportunities to younger generations but to also open its doors to outside groups. This grant is an investment in our community, and I am pleased to welcome this well-deserved funding into Johnson County.”

The Johnson County Public Library is unique because although it is in one of Tennessee’s smallest counties, it is highly utilized, with 51 percent of the population having a library card. Since 2006, the library has provided a space for the community to have many activities including art classes, crochet classes, a young adult book club and a sewing program for homeschoolers.

“I am grateful to Secretary Hargett for recognizing that the Johnson County Public Library is an invaluable resource in our community and for this investment, which will help sustain it in the years ahead,” said Rep. Timothy Hill (R-Blountville). “This expansion will improve accessibility and accommodate the growing number of our residents who rely on the library in order to meet their daily needs.”