CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla., Oct. 25, 2026 — Wakulla County has built a new public library, and the chickens are moving in too. The new Wakulla County Public Library at 296 Shadeville Road was scheduled to hold its grand opening ribbon cutting on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 9 a.m., according to the county (Wakulla County).

The ceremony was first set for Sept. 29 (Wakulla County). The county moved it back one week "so we can finish the last details just right" (Wakulla County).

The invitation promised more than a ribbon. Visitors were told to "come for the ribbon cutting, stay for tours, community partners, and a first look at the next chapter of your library" (Wakulla County). The opening was organized by Wakulla County Library Services along with the Board of County Commissioners (Wakulla County).

What's inside

The county describes the building as "a modern 12,500 square foot single story library" (Wakulla County).

Features include teen spaces, gaming consoles, areas for children's programs, furniture with plug-in technology and public computers (Wakulla County). The collection holds more than 30,700 materials (Wakulla County).

And yes, the library's resident chickens are relocating with the move, the county said (Wakulla County).

How it was paid for

Funding of $3,857,918 came from Florida Commerce's Capital Projects Fund Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Project Program. The money originated with the U.S. Treasury and was distributed through Florida Commerce's Office of Broadband, the county said (Wakulla County).

That program has goals beyond books. Funded buildings must offer a private telemedicine room, educational opportunities such as digital literacy and online learning, and employment services such as online training, certification and job search access (Wakulla County).

What county leaders said

"This new library is more than a building, it's a long-term investment in our residents," said Somer Pell, assistant county administrator, in the county's release (Wakulla County).

Linda Oaks, director of library services, called the opening "an incredibly exciting moment for our community" (Wakulla County). She added, "Our library is a place where everyone belongs, whether they come to discover a new book, use technology, attend a program, study, connect with others, or simply find a welcoming place in their community" (Wakulla County).

The county's announcement of the new date put it this way: "Same great library. A brighter tomorrow" (Wakulla County).

Library hours

The county lists these hours for the new library (Wakulla County):

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Wednesdays and Fridays: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Sundays and Mondays: closed

For questions, the county's release lists Mike Beauchamp at 850-926-0919 as the contact (Wakulla County).

Sources

  1. Wakulla County, "News Release - Wakulla County Public Library - Grand Opening Ceremony" (Sept. 18, 2026): https://www.mywakulla.com/news_detail_T29_R2835.php
  2. Wakulla County, "News Release - RESCHEDULED Grand Opening Ceremony - Wakulla County Public Library": https://www.mywakulla.com/news_detail_T29_R2838.php

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