Robbinsville – Instilling the love of reading and fostering the pursuit of knowledge is one of the many responsibilities of a county librarian.
The library is a place where everyone is welcome to gather for social interaction, cultural exchange, community connections, knowledge and instruction. It is a place where the community can engage in literacy programs, workshops and computer access.
With the recent passing of Mary Griffin, continuing to provide quality programs has become a major concern for Graham County.
On Dec. 5, the Graham County Public Library welcomed Courtney Anderson as the new librarian. An open house was held in her honor, and several community members and county officials gathered to congratulate Anderson.
A 2002 graduate of Robbinsville High School, Anderson attended Western Carolina University. She and her husband Brandon live in Graham County with their three children.
She began working as a substitute at the library in 2021 and became a part-time employee in 2022. After Griffin’s death, Anderson was approached by Nantahala Regional Library Director Franklin Shook and asked to consider taking the position. After careful consideration, she decided to accept the challenge. She will soon begin classes to complete a Master’s in Library and Information Systems in 2025.
Anderson is aware of county goals for the library, such as providing the best information and resources, internet access, programming and new books, and will continue to provide the residents with quality programming, interesting and relevant materials, and workshops. She looks forward to the new year.
“I’m excited and thankful for the opportunity to help be a service to Graham County,” Anderson said.
“We are excited to have Anderson on board and we look forward to all she is going to bring to Graham County Library,” Shook added.