Haven’t found the time to visit our newly redecorated library? The circular-revolving uplift of walls with circular glass isn’t old school design, the design is worthy of the founders efforts, circa 1906. (Source material by Ellen Payne Odom, “History of the Public Library of Moultrie, Ga.” 1906- 1965).

With the first mention of the Moultrie Library appearing in the minutes of the City Council dated December 4th, 1906. The Commissioner of Schools for Colquitt County Mr. J. E. Howell was present and asked for funds from the Council for maintenance of a public library for the city. The following resolution was passed.

“Resolved: That in the event that Mr. Andrew Carnegie can be induced to make an appropriation for a free public library in Moultrie, that Council agrees to appropriate the sum of $100.00 per month for its maintenance, and furnish an appropriate site for same.”

Moultrie Observer articles posted indicate Mr. Howell’s daughter, Mrs. John R. Hall, recalls being required to learn either to button her shoes or to comb her hair in order to be allowed to accompany him on some of his trips! She also remembers crying because she was not permitted to go with him when, in 1906, he went to see Mr. Carnegie about a library building for Moultrie. Mr. Howell traveled widely in the interest of the schools.

Mr. Howell made a most favorable impression on Mr. Carnegie, since the latter replied promptly when informed of the action of the City Council regarding terms that he and Mr. Howell must have discussed in person. On December 15, the Observer printed the following letter from Mr. Carnegie’s secretary.

New York, December 13, 1906

Dear Mr. Howell,

Responding to your communication on behalf of Moultrie, if the City Council agrees by resolution of Council to maintain a Free Public Library at a cost of not less than One Thousand Dollars a year, and provide a suitable site for the building, Mr. Carnegie will be glad to give Ten Thousand Dollars to erect a Free Public Library in Moultrie.”

On January 1, 1907, the City Council appointed the Board of Managers for the library. They met on January 24 to elect Mr. Howell chairman. On February 6, the committee unanimously voted to accept a site on the corner of Crawford and West Broad Streets. The lot was 50 by 150 feet and lay “between the skating rink and the residence of Mr. Z. H. Clark.”

On May 14, 1907, Messrs. M.D. and J. B. Norman deeded the lot to the City of Moultrie for the sum payment of $2,500.00, but with provisos, that property shall never be used for any purpose that would be more objectionable to the adjoining property owners, such as a stable or cow lot.

Many interim meetings occurred before this date. “THE LIBRARY IS COMPLETE” April16 1908. With the formal opening on the evening of May 29, 1908, when a Book Shower will be given by friends.

Mr. Carnegie donated money for Free Libraries all around the world. I am presently aware, not every community received free money for libraries, action by communities and leaders like Mr. J. E. Howell made “Carnegie Libraries” possible.

Tom Rogers

Moultrie