Celebrating 40 Years of Community and Learning
As we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Harvin Clarendon County Library building, we reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this milestone. This celebration is not just about the building; it is about the community that built it, the dreams it has housed, and the future it continues to inspire.
In the early 1980s, the residents of Clarendon County came together with a shared vision: to create a modern, spacious library that would serve as a cornerstone for learning, community engagement, and cultural enrichment. Children from local schools participated enthusiastically, buying bricks for $1 each, contributing to the "Buy-a-Brick" campaign. For those children, now adults, the library stands as a testament to their early contributions and the power of community action. Each brick they bought symbolizes a piece of their childhood and a lasting legacy of their commitment to future generations.
The Harvin Clarendon County Library is more than just a repository of books. It is a vibrant community hub where knowledge meets opportunity. The library's architectural features, such as the distinctive brick wall constructed from materials salvaged from the old Manning High School, and the prominent large window highlighted in our logo, serve as enduring symbols of our heritage and our forward-looking vision. These elements not only honor our past but also inspire a future of openness, learning, and community spirit.
As we celebrate this 40th birthday, we honor the visionaries who saw the need for a new library, the donors who generously supported its construction, and the countless volunteers and community members who contributed their time, energy, and resources. We look forward to continuing this legacy of learning and community service, ensuring that the Harvin Clarendon County Library remains a beacon of knowledge and a gathering place for all.
Join us in celebrating 40 years of community, learning, and growth. Let us look back with pride and forward with hope, as we continue to build a brighter future together.
Our history
Early Beginnings
The Clarendon County Public Library's origins trace back to the early 20th century. The initial library service began in the early 1900s with a small collection of books housed in various temporary locations around Manning, South Carolina.
Establishment and Growth
The first dedicated library building in Manning was established in 1909, located in the Civic League building, which eventually became listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over the decades, the library outgrew this space as the community's needs and the library's collection continued to expand.
Fundraising Efforts for a New Library
By the late 1970s, it was clear that the library needed a new, larger facility. A significant fundraising campaign was launched to support the construction of a new library building. The community rallied behind this cause, raising substantial funds through various efforts, including donations and grants.
