By Terra Maples
The Holmes County Public Library has become a cornerstone and safe place for the community. Not only do they provide access to books of many genres for all age groups, but they also offer support to the residents of Holmes County.
They assist those who are seeking jobs, working on obtaining their GED, or needing access to technology or educational programs. They act as a support system for students, senior citizens, families, and even those experiencing homelessness.
“Anytime someone comes in needing help, whether it’s applying for food stamps, building a résumé, studying for a GED, or even learning how to use a new phone, we’re here to walk them through it,” said Becky Marsh, Director of the library.
The library staff regularly help with online forms, notarizing documents, setting up Zoom calls, and helping patrons prepare for the driver’s license test in partnership with the local DMV. For individuals experiencing homelessness, the library works directly with Sheriff John Tate and local shelters to connect them with safe housing and critical resources.
“We’re kind of like the community center,” Marsh added. “You can come from anywhere, and it’s our goal to help you get to where you need to be. We love to help.”
They also participate in the growth and development of school-age students academically, mentally, and socially with the summer programs they provide. These programs allow for parents with financial burdens, who can’t send their children to a care center, camp, or childcare provider, to have a free place for their children to learn basic life and academic skills in a fun, interactive way.
For younger children, the library hosts Kaleidoscope Play & Learn, a developmentally focused, no-cost playgroup for ages 0–5, offered in partnership with the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida.
“The most important thing is that children and teens have a place to feel safe,” Marsh said. “They can come here, ask questions, and we’ll give them information and guidance.”
Homeschool, public school, and college students are offered a variety of resources to aid in their academic endeavors. The library gives free access to computers, printed pages (the first ten), private rooms for proctored exams, and access to more than 20 online learning platforms with a library card.
Other resources include audiobooks, research assistance, and specialty book orders including textbooks and hard-to-find materials. “We help with any of the educational programs that we offer, and it gives students an idea of what they can achieve,” Marsh said.
Marsh emphasizes the importance of offering free access to the internet as well. “Not everybody has access to the internet, and here you can get it for free,” said Marsh. “That can make a big difference — especially for college students and homeschoolers who need online access.”
The library staff explained that the biggest reward they receive is knowing they took part in helping meet the needs of the people of the community.
“The only thing we benefit from is having people come in and knowing we helped somebody,” Marsh said. “We are here for our community. We are more than just books. If we can help, that’s the most important part.”
GARETT VALCOURT 