SIX MILE — A date has finally been set for the opening of the new Six Mile community library, its board of directors announced Monday.

“We will have our grand opening on Monday, April 11, in conjunction with National Library Week and National Volunteer Week,” board chairman Brenda Rippy told the Courier. “What a great week to open our community library of Six Mile.

“It all started with our volunteers. They generously gave their time to help us get where we are today. I would like to thank the many businesses and all the volunteers who made this possible,” Rippy said.
Rippy said that the location of the new library, located at the intersection of S.C. 183 and S.C. 137, was chosen to allow those that come to enjoy all it has to offer easy access and parking. The board looked all over the Six Mile area, including buildings located in the town limits.

“Many have asked why we chose its current location and why we didn’t use an empty building on Main Street,” Rippy said. “The reason we didn’t choose those buildings were their lack of adequate parking for a public library.

“As a businesswoman, a reader, a parent, and an involved community member, I care deeply about the fate and future of our community,” she said. “I believe that libraries are an essential part of a community, and the more literate our community, the more prosperous and ingenious we can be.”

During the library’s grand opening April 11, refreshments and library cards will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2536 Walhalla Hwy. in Six Mile, below the Six Mile Cafe.
Since the library is not yet a part of the Pickens County Library System, those signing up for a card are asked to pay $5 per person or $10 for the whole family to take part in making the library sustainable.
“We are not part of the county library system but we hope to be in the future,” Rippy said. “Right now we will depend on our funding to come from local community residents and community grants.
“We still need all the help we can get. Volunteers can sign up as well. We are asking for your help to keep our library open by volunteering a few hours during the week. Our hours of operation are limited, because we have only a few volunteers.”
When the facility officially opens, its operation hours will be Mondays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Fridays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
“We would like to be open longer, but it depends on volunteers,” Rippy said. “If you can help, stop by and see us, or you can call (864) 506-0225 for more information.”