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Calhoun County receives $1 million for new library

By LARRY P. JORDAN, T&D Correspondent

ST. MATTHEWS – “A new library in Calhoun County will open up windows of opportunity,” S.C. House District 96 Rep. Harry Ott Jr. said during the presentation Aug. 24 of $1 million from the South Carolina State Library for construction of a new library.

Calhoun County plans to build the new library with the $1 million appropriated by the state, along with county funds. A capital campaign is under way for the project.

A large standing room only crowd was on hand for the presentation and reception which also featured S.C. District 36 Sen. John Land.

“I’m proud to be the senator from Calhoun County, and I’m especially proud to be working with Harry Ott,” Land said. “Harry Ott got this money for you.”

Land said Ott had been working on securing the library funding since he arrived in the House, adding that Ott has become a “moving force” in the legislature.

Ott called the funding a “political win-win” that was the result of both parties working together. He recognized the help of Dan Cooper, House Ways and Means chairman, and House Speaker Bobby Harrell, both Republicans. Ott said securing the funds for the new library was accomplished by cooperation.

“You’ve got my commitment,” Ott told those attending, adding that the presentation “has been a long time in coming.”

Calhoun County Council Chairman David Summers Land and Ott, “We thank you for everything you’ve done for us in Calhoun County.”

Library Board of Trustees Chairperson Ann Thornton, in acknowledging the overflow crowd, said, “Your presence indicates support for the library. It’s certainly a day of celebration.”

She thanked the two legislators for their support, adding that everyone in the county can benefit from the new library.

Suzie Boykin, president of the Friends of the Library, also expressed her appreciation to Ott and Land.

Also on hand for the check presentation was Patti Butcher, director of the South Carolina State Library.

-- T&D Correspondent Larry P. Jordan can be reached by phone at 803-874-3276. Discuss this and other stories online at TheTandD.com.