The Beaufort County Library is excited to announce the one-year anniversary of its Port Royal Branch Library. The public is invited to a community birthday celebration Saturday, August 23, starting at 11 a.m., at the Port Royal Branch, 1408 Paris Avenue (map).

Attendees can enjoy a craft, a treat, and a special story time guest. The new library officially opened its doors Wednesday, August 21, 2024. The building, proudly named the Samuel E. Murray Library, is a heartfelt tribute to Mayor Samuel E. Murray, a dedicated leader whose legacy continues to inspire.

The branch offers children's, teens, and adult collections with over 5,000 materials, including books and movies. It also provides dedicated meeting and conference rooms, public computers, and a self-service scan, fax, and email station.

Library Director Amanda Brewer Dickman expressed delight in welcoming residents to the "beautiful new branch library" designed to meet community needs, providing access to information, technology, and inspiring programs.

Beaufort County Councilwoman Alice Howard added that the Samuel E. Murray Library reflects and enhances its unique community, supporting learning, leisure, and life.

The history of library services in Beaufort County spans centuries, marked by community dedication despite challenges like fires and war. From its antecedents in 1802 through the opening of the Beaufort Township Library in 1918, the Beaufort County Library system continues to embrace proactive change through its branches and diverse services. Learn more about the library's historical timeline at https://www.beaufortcountylibrary.org/library-history.

Today’s Beaufort County residents enjoy convenient access to six full-service branch libraries and two Bookmobiles, which deliver library services to communities across the county's northern and southern regions.

Library cards are FREE for Beaufort County residents and property owners, ages 4 and up. Click here to register for a library card.

For more information about Beaufort County Library branches and programs, click here.