Gone are the days of tiptoeing through aisles of untouched books – the modern library movement invites patrons to engage beyond the page.
Today, libraries like the Keith Summey Library in North Charleston invite members of the community to gather, take classes, learn about technology and crafts, cook and share food, and of course, read.
The original North Charleston branch of the Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) system was built back in 1948 as a memorial for World War II veterans, and was known as the Cooper River Memorial Library.
Keith Summey places a hard hat on his granddaughter during a groundbreaking ceremony at the construction site for the new library in North Charleston on May 17, 2021.
More than 70 years later, in 2021, construction began, uniquely incorporating the original 5,000-square-foot library into the state-of-the-art facility. Named after the former mayor of North Charleston who led the city for more than 30 years, the Keith Summey Library plays a key role in the local community.
With a learning lab for technology classes; a creative studio housing a 3-D printer, laser engraver, large format printer, sewing machines, and arts and crafts supplies, the Keith Summey Library is leading the way in offering more than books to local families. Today, libraries are stepping in to serve as vital community hubs.
Science workshops are held at the new Keith Summey Library in North Charleston.
“The library also has a community kitchen, which provides a space for food literacy programming, a teen space where teens can unwind after school, and community rooms for hosting programs,” said Von Yeager, Branch Manager of the Keith Summey Library. Yeager came to CCPL in 2022, after serving in academic libraries for 15 years. “The Keith Summey Library holds a special place in our community, providing access to resources and programs that were previously unavailable to them. We are addressing our long-time community members’ needs, while embracing the rapid revitalization occurring in North Charleston.”
The library is a vibrant hub of the North Charleston community offering food literacy programming for children, teens, and adults; author book signings; art and music events; and free vegetable distribution in partnership with Lowcountry Food Bank, Lowcountry Street Grocery, and Whipper Barony Community Garden.
“We serve a diverse economic and cultural patronage, and reflect the shifting demographics within the Charleston metro area,” Yeager explained. “Managing the library is special to me because we are a part of the change we want to see in our community, and the world. The area has been underserved for some time, but is on the upswing. Our successes here will encourage others to participate and invest in what is happening here in this community.”
The Keith Summey Library in North Charleston offers STEM and technology classes, such as the Y Girls Code team.
Inviting community members to actively engage with library services encourages literacy and a love of books in a one-of-a-kind way. “Libraries are so much more than book depositories!” exclaimed Children's Services Manager Halley Repasch. “Here, children and families can learn how to create, make, and even cook something new. They can discover new interests and expand their understanding of the world around them in a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment.”
With so much to do at the Keith Summey Library, local children are sure to grow up with a strong sense of community, and a love of books.
“I love seeing our patrons coming here, enjoying the space, and feeling like they finally have the type of facility they deserve,” shared Yeager.
Is your family looking for a good book? Library staff share their favorites!
- Halley Repasch, Children’s Services Manager: “The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende
- Tiffany Greenwood, Children’s Services Librarian: “Silly Sally” by Audrey Wood
- Conner Caraman, Library Specialist: “The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend” by Dan Santat
- Akeyla Jordan, Library Specialist: “All We Need is Love and a Really Soft Pillow!” by Peter H. Reynolds
