The Eufaula Memorial Library had some good news and some bad news last week.
On Wednesday, July 17, the library celebrated its 40th anniversary at its present location, 301 S. 1st St.
But on the same day, Branch Manager Amanda Grantham stated she was leaving the position she has held for 18 months to return to her first love, teaching.
She said a search is now underway for a replacement.
Her last day at the library was Tuesday, July 22. She began work in August 2023 as a librarian and was named branch manager in January 2024.
She will begin teaching at Indianola Public Schools on Thursday, Aug. 14.
Much of Grantham’s tenure was keeping the library operating while the building was undergoing extensive renovation and removal of black mold.
The facility closed on June 24, 2024, and reopened on Nov. 6, 2024 While the building was closed, the library conducted its business across the street, in the Community Center.
Past Librarians have included Marguerite Schmitt, Doris Bivins, Carol Albin, Shirley Thomas. Margaret Collins, Peggy Jordan, Brittany Moore, Shymekia Adams and Grantham.
The July 17 birthday party was a low-keyed affair, with a dozen or more on hand to celebrate.
Nothing like when there was a formal dedication ceremony on Aug. 23, 1985, which was attended by more than 500 spectators and Gov. George Nigh was the guest speaker.
The building cost more than $40,000, most of it donations.
The family of the late Charles Follansbee, a banker who wanted to see his hometown have a library, donated $100,000.
The land was donated by the family of W.E. Wendell, a retired doctor.
About 130 persons donated $1,000 each.
The grants included $100,000 in federal funds and $50,000 from the Kerr Foundation.
Before the new building became a reality, the library moved in and out of several locations, including a small facility at 116 S. 1st St. in the Harry Cates Building, which opened on Jan. 31, 1971.
It also operated out of a double-wide mobile home at 272 Broadway and the armory where the late Librarian Marguerite Schmitt used roller skates to get around.
