Local branch reopens with cutting-edge technology and a vibrant new look
by Elise Lusk | Contributing Writer
For centuries, libraries have served as community hubs for knowledge, culture, and socialization. While a lot has changed with the modern library system in how we use them, their essential role remains steadfast. Nowhere is that more evident than on Folly Beach, where our local branch of the Charleston County Library is much more than a place where you can go and check out your next beach read or do research for a project you’re working on.
On Folly Beach, the library’s role extends far beyond its books, even serving as the island’s Community Center. It’s a meeting place for the nation’s oldest continuously operating Civic Club and a key venue for political forums during election seasons. The library also houses exhibits by the Folly Beach Historical Society, showcasing the island’s rich heritage. Support groups frequently use the space for their meetings, and the library accommodates a wide variety of other activities, making it an invaluable resource for both locals and those visiting the island. This is why, when the library closed on March 1 for renovations, a part of Folly Beach was temporarily lost. But last month, after less than two months, that part was restored when the newly renovated Folly Beach Library officially opened to the public.
“This branch is really special because it’s a very community-centered location,” said Angela Craig, Executive Director of the Charleston County Public Library, at the official ribbon cutting that was held on Monday, May 20. For Craig, the Folly Beach branch holds a special place in her heart. She told the crowd of residents, media, and various members of local government in attendance that she first came to this branch as a tourist while visiting Folly Beach her family. She said it was this island that sold her on relocating to Charleston. “This branch is so special to the community and we’re so happy to be reopening it,” added Craig.
Folly Beach City Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem D.J. Rich echoed similar sentiments and spoke on the importance of the space to the community.
“Usually, when you have a project going on at this length your residents get a little antsy to see the final result. I don’t think so with this project,” said Rich. “These are technological advancements they’ve been asking for for a long time. It looks great inside, and I think our residents are really going to enjoy it. Not only is this a library, it’s our Community Center. This is a very, very busy building, and I think everybody is going to be happy with the improvements that have been made.”
In 2014, Charleston County voters passed a $108.5 million referendum to build five libraries and update the existing branches. As part of that project, five new libraries have been built throughout the County and the Folly branch got some much-needed upgrades, like state-of-the-art technology and a vibrant new interior, including fresh paint and new furnishings.
“Charleston County is so proud to have partnered with and been able to renovate this location,” said Jenny Honeycutt, Charleston County Council Dist. 9 representative, who represents Folly Beach. “This is one of those occasions where it truly has been the community, a location and a resource for people. They love it here and it offers so much. So, we hope the technological advances that we will be providing with this renovation will really draw people in and they will enjoy it.”
Rob Byko, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Charleston County, also voiced his excitement for Folly Beach Library reopening.
“We’re very excited to open these front doors to this library so you, as patrons and residents here on Folly Beach, can get inside and open all the doors, whether it’s a book or a mouse click or an AI chat GPT inquiry,” said Byko We know that there is going to be adventure and fun and interesting things discovered inside once these doors are open.”
While parents are especially happy to again have a place to bring their kids to read and learn in a fun environment, perhaps no one is more excited than longtime Folly Beach Library Branch Manager Mary Bushkar.
“This library has been a huge part of my life for almost 20 years now, as a patron first and now as an employee,” said Bushkar. “I love this community, I love my coworkers—former and present—and I’m just so grateful to be here and just really, really excited that we’re reopening.”
The Folly Beach Library is located at 55 Center St. For more information, call (843) 588-2001 or visit www.ccpl.org/branches/folly-beach.
