Frequently Asked Questions
Established in 1989, the O’Kelly Memorial Library currently offers just 7,162 square feet of usable space and can no longer meet the growing demand of Loganville’s population. Additionally, an impending GDOT roadway expansion project will encroach on the existing site, reducing accessibility, eliminating parking and green space, and preventing future growth. A new library is necessary to serve current and future generations.
More information: [View official GDOT meeting minutes]
No. The library will always retain the name O’Kelly Memorial Library in honor of Mrs. Willie D. O’Kelly Dubois. There are no plans to change the name.
The City of Loganville owns both the land and the existing library facility. The City will also retain ownership of the new library building and the new land site in downtown Loganville, located at Main Street, Covington Street, and Lucy Streets.
City meeting reference: [Loganville City Council Minutes – July 20, 2023]
The City of Loganville will determine the future of the current facility and land. It may be repurposed or sold.
To qualify for the $3 million Capital Outlay Grant, the library must be located in a separate building used solely for library purposes. Municipal facilities such as city halls are not eligible under state regulations.
Learn more: [Capital Outlay Grant Requirements]
Expansion is not feasible due to wetlands, a City sub pump, and neighboring private property. Renovations would also not resolve accessibility issues or meet the 20-year site sustainability requirement tied to state grants. The GDOT project also further limits renovation potential.
No, city taxes will not increase. The project is funded by a $3 million state grant, $1.2 million in county impact fees, and $1.5 million in federal ARPA funds and city-donated land.
City land appraisal reference: [Appraisal Report (PDF)]
The new library will be constructed in two phases:
- Phase 1: 10,000–15,000 sq. ft.
- Phase 2: Additional 10,000+ sq. ft.
A feasibility study recommends a total of 24,900 sq. ft.
View the full study: [2021 Feasibility Report (PDF)]
The library will share infrastructure costs with the City of Loganville to ensure sustainable growth, including parking and water retention systems.
The City of Loganville owns and maintains the library building. Additional support is provided by the Azalea Regional Library System, including funding from MRR state grants.
More info: [Library Services Overview]
That number is constantly changing. The Friends of the O’Kelly Memorial Library operate independently as a 501(c)(3). All funds raised go directly toward supporting the new library project.
Yes, the City is a key partner. The City Manager is part of the construction committee, and the City is working on an Intergovernmental Agreement to share greenspace and parking.
Visit our Contact Page or reach out to the Azalea Regional Library System at (706) 342-4974 or email hr@azalealibraries.org.
