By NAN THOMPSON
The public library is no stranger to children, but the Holmes County Public Library (HCPL) recently decided to take that thought one step further to help local children.
The library has been designated a ‘Safe Place’ after its staff completed training through Anchorage Children’s Home. Safe Place sites are businesses or public locations where children can seek help during a crisis.
Presented with a plague commemorating the designation on August 14, the library is just one of two such ‘Safe Places’ in Holmes County that are considered a Safe Place, the other being the Bonifay Fire Department.
The library will offer 24-hour service for children in need by offering after-hours phone numbers to call.
‘Hundreds of children come to the library, and we can now help those in crisis,’ said HCPL Director Becky Marsh. ‘I am honored to be able to offer this service to the community.’
For more information, contact Marsh at 850-547-3573.
GARETT VALCOURT 
Dara Kam 
KINSLEY COOK 