DOUGHERTY COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — The Dougherty County Westtown library branch could receive its first renovation in decades if county commissioners approve about $590,000 in funding for the project.

The library was built in 1978 and has not been renovated since, according to county officials. The total project cost is estimated at more than $2.1 million.

“As I was younger, I would see the same thing every day for real so finally something new is coming,” said Kentavious Rollins, a library patron.

Rollins said the library has served as a safe space with resources including air conditioning, Wi-Fi and computers for work.

“I feel good, there’s air in here so sometimes it is hot outside, so you can just come in and sit down. I use the Wi-Fi for my phone sometimes and the computer sometimes to do my work,” Rollins said.

Construction bids total just over $1.7 million. The remaining costs will be covered by SPLOST funds and state grants.

The renovation would include new flooring, new shelving, upgraded computers and new furniture. The project also includes stronger, more reliable Wi-Fi.

Planning for the renovation began around 2016-2017, but COVID-19 delayed the project, according to the Dougherty County library director. The delay resulted in increased costs and the need for additional funding.

“Everyone wants a beautiful space to go into, whether it’s your library, your hospital, your grocery store, everyone wants their space nicely appointed. And the citizens of Dougherty county deserve that,” the library director said.

County leaders will vote on the funding request in the coming weeks.

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