Library Celebrates Three Milestones

John Hayden works in the W. Walworth Harrison Public Library surrounded by shelves that have witnessed three decades of Greenville’s evolving story.

As library director, he sees his institution as more than a repository of books. It’s what he calls a “sanctuary for those who choose to escape the chains of yesterday in order to empower themselves for tomorrow.”

Tuesday night, the library will host “The Infinite Chapter,” an open house celebrating a convergence of anniversaries that span from local history to the founding of America itself. The event at 6 p.m. will mark the library building’s 30th anniversary, the 50th anniversary of its naming after W. Walworth Harrison, and the United States’ 250th birthday.

The three milestones anchor Hayden’s vision of libraries as guardians of what he calls the three foundational pillars: liberty, legacy and literacy.

“The legacy of any library is to promote literacy and grant the people their undeniable liberty and right to grow in whatever capacity they choose,” Hayden said.

The Harrison family played an integral role in Greenville’s library movement, and their namesake institution continues that tradition today. Hayden sees his library’s mission extending far beyond honoring the past.

“Libraries are the stewards of free thought, guiding patrons on the path of their choosing,” he said. “We do not force any will or agenda upon anyone as it is understood that every patron is entitled to their own path, regardless of theology, ideology or creed.”

The event’s title reflects this philosophy of endless possibility.

“The Infinite Chapter refers to the ongoing mission of Libraries to educate, cultivate, inspire and empower,” Hayden said. “Centuries from now, the role of the library will remain the same: bringing information in whatever form it may take to the people it serves.”

Hayden acknowledges that libraries face unprecedented change.

“We stand at the precipice of a changing world with emerging technologies that will further shape what we know as everyday life,” he said.

In Hayden’s view, libraries serve as community equalizers where “class is irrelevant.” The open house will feature food from Glenda’s, speakers, door prizes and tours designed to showcase this welcoming environment.

“Libraries are gardens through which we cultivate the future as well as the lens through which we realize it,” Hayden said. “It is our mission to bring the technology and information of tomorrow to the peoples’ hands.”

When guests leave the June 2 celebration, Hayden hopes they’ll understand something fundamental about public libraries and American democracy.

“In libraries, we are all students during life, forever inspiring, forever empowering, and forever growing,” he said. “It is how we choose to grow together that molds the future of the community.”

The infinite chapter, it seems, is just beginning.