Brighter Days Ahead for Bolivar-Hardeman County Library
“Did y’all forget to turn the lights on?” is a question that has been asked to the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library staff for several years. A joke, certainly, but a joke with truth.
Those who have visited the library in the last several years have undoubtedly noticed the inadequate lighting. Lightbulbs would make their own decisions each day, deciding on a whim whether they wanted to illuminate, flicker, or stay off entirely. Staff members and patrons suffered from headaches because of this issue and had difficulty reading and looking for books.
The delay in light installation was due to the issue of the maintenance cost. The project would end up costing approximately $15,000. Funds for the project were collected through the Friends of the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library organization, which worked closely with the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) EnergyRight for Business and Industry incentive program and library staff for creative fundraisers. Those fundraisers included the Friends of the Library’s used bookstore (of which the books sold are donations from the community), Escape Room tickets, and the sale of unique folded books, which were made by Cheryl Avent and generously donated to the Friends of the Library organization. Mrs. Avent has made over 300 folded books but has profited zero dollars. In addition, countless heartfelt donations from community members contributed to the light installation cost.
On Monday, June 30, 2025, Hill’s Plumbing and Electric began the long awaited light installation, and on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the installation was completed. The critical upgrade replaced all the library’s old lights, which were very old and had failing ballasts. Now, with new, energy-efficient LED lights, brighter days are certainly ahead for Bolivar-Hardeman County Library’s patrons, staff, and electric bill.
The Bolivar Hardeman County Library is a public, non-profit institution, which provides materials and services to help community residents obtain information to meet their personal, educational, and cultural needs. The fundraising for the light installation is a testament to the community’s love and appreciation for the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library.
If you would like to support the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library, consider visiting the Corner Bookshop for your next read, or purchase a unique folded book! The Corner Bookshop is located inside the library. You may also follow the Friends of the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library Facebook page.
Author Hannah Thompson
As the assistant director of the Bolivar‑Hardeman County Library, Hannah has the privilege of sharing her love of stories with the Hardeman County community every day. She is excited to do the same as a member of the Hatchie Press team. When she is not working, you’ll likely find Hannah reading in the company of her sweet feline children, Galinda and Galileo.
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