The Fannin County Public Library (FCPL) is a branch of the Mountain Regional Library System (MRLS). Nestled in beautiful downtown Blue Ridge, FCPL has no shortage of attractions nearby. From Mercier Orchards to the charming local restaurants and craft breweries to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the beautiful hiking trails, Blue Ridge is a great place to live or vacation and, of course, to get your daily dose of an awesome library!
The Fannin County Public Library, though limited in space, makes the most of its resources, constantly striving to better serve the community and the many tourists. Of course the summer reading program is always a huge hit in Fannin County. Storytimes are held every Tuesday and led by Darcy Arnall, who has a big heart for the kids and isn’t afraid to be silly, loud, and just plain fun. In addition, the library offers a wide variety of live performers, such as magicians, illustrators, storytellers, musical acts, and the Hampstead Stage Company. Hampstead has performed the likes of Beauty and the Beast, The Christmas Carol, and coming this summer… Treasure Island!
And that’s not all! The library system also offers puppet shows! In 2016, MRLS Director Vince Stone, with the help of some willing staff members, created the Mountain Regional Puppet Company, which performed its first show that summer. They haven’t slowed down since! Performing acts are based primarily on children’s books, such as Pete the Cat and The Polar Express. The Mountain Regional Puppet Company has entertained hundreds of adults and kids alike and has become quite the popular attraction! In the summer, the Fannin County Public Library also screens movies in the city park every other Friday, drawing solid crowds and providing a fun night for the families. In 2017 FCPL showed Moana, The Secret Life of Pets, The BFG, and Rogue One.
To improve services, the library recently installed a courtesy charging station for patrons’ mobile devices and a brand new KIC Click Mini Scanner to allows patrons to quickly and easily scan, save, and transfer photos and documents. In addition, by February, all libraries in the Mountain Regional Library System will be offering mobile Wi-Fi hotspots with unlimited data for checkout.
Of course, the library also has a vast collection of books, magazines, audiovisual materials, and genealogical resources. Whether you are a Fannin County resident, a part-timer, or just happen to be visiting for the scenery, stop in and check out what the library has to offer. You will feel more than at home with the incredibly helpful and friendly library staff, the abundance of resources, and that rich Fannin County hospitality.
Learn more about the Fannin County Public Library at www.mountainregionallibrary.org or follow us on Facebook.