Where We Live: History, Nature and Culture—The History and Importance of Public Libraries in Macon County

On Monday, April 21, the series Where We Live: History, Nature, and Culture will present a program on the history and importance of public libraries in Macon County.

 The program will focus on the history and development of the Macon County Public Library over the past 125 years.  With sincere acknowledgement to the late Barbara McRae, the presentation will highlight the role of women throughout the history of library services in Macon County.  We're particularly grateful to be sharing our library's history at the conclusion of National Library Week, which honored the impact that libraries have on their surrounding communities.

The speakers will be Karen Wallace, former Macon County librarian and Abby Hardison, current librarian.

Wallace began her work in Macon County as the County Librarian in 1992, and in 2006 also served as the Director for Fontana Regional Library. She participated in several building projects throughout the Region, including the design and construction of the current library in Franklin, the renovation and expansion of the Hudson Library in Highlands, and logistical plans to move the Nantahala Community Library.

A highlight of Wallace’s career was promoting the library as not only a place to read, learn, and enjoy resources, but also in helping people utilize rapidly changing technologies. Having the opportunity to help bring people together, and to help them find what they’re looking for was the most rewarding achievement of her career.

Abby Hardison supervises the three Macon libraries in the Fontana Regional Library system. Hardison took over this position in January 2023 after the retirement of Karen Wallace. Hardison previously supervised Adult Services for Rowan Public Library in Salisbury, NC. Originally from Georgia, Hardison received her bachelor's degree from Georgia State University, and Master of Library Science degree from East Carolina University.    

The program will be held at Cowee School Arts and Heritage Center at 51 Cowee School Drive in Franklin at 6:30 pm. This speaker series takes place on the third Monday of each month. Come share an informative and enjoyable evening with us.