New library annex opens inside Macon Mall

Middle Georgia Regional Library leaders say they are placing a focus on improving library access to residents in West Macon, which has been limited due to the closing of the Thomaston Road location in 2018.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Middle Georgia Regional Library has opened its newest branch: an annex inside the Macon Mall.

The mall, located on Eisenhower Parkway, has become a one-stop shop for several Macon-Bibb County services and government offices. Middle Georgia Regional Library leaders say they are placing a focus on improving library access to residents in West Macon, which has been limited due to the closing of the Thomaston Road location in 2018.

Jennifer Lautzenheiser, the Director of Libraries, says the new annex should help to fill that void.

“One of our core values is convenient and equal access,” Lautzenheiser said. “That means libraries available where people are, where they live, and where they need them. And people need their library here. They’re visiting offices, we have so many schools nearby, families live in the area. They did not have a library in close proximity, and now they do.”

Lautzenheiser says heavy reliance on the internet in today’s digital age has resulted in a societal decrease of the benefits gained when you go to the library to read and learn more. She hopes the new library helps to combat that trend in Macon-Bibb County.

“Research shows that a majority of adults lack the fundamental literacy skills to read a ballot, read complex news articles or even compare reviews online,” Lautzenheiser said. “So literacy really does translate to quality of life.”

Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller was in attendance for the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday. In a speech, he said the new annex provides the opportunity for growth for people of all ages in Macon-Bibb County.

“It will touch the lives of so many people,” Miller said. “As much as we can get our students in here reading and writing, our parents, there’s a place where you can come work on your application to get a job. You can host a meeting here. There’s a 3D printer. This is going to open up so many more services to our community, and it brings us together and makes us a stronger community.”