It all began officially in 1992, when the Franklin County Public Library was approved by the County Commissioners, and the Friends joined forces with Wakulla and Jefferson County Public Libraries to form the Wilderness Coast Public Libraries. Picture a donated storefront space in Eastpoint with a handful of paperbacks, a lumpy sofa and big dreams. Followed a year later by the Carrabelle branch opening in the Music Room of the old Carrabelle school. Fast forward to now—the Franklin County Public Libraries have over 3400 registered library cardholders in a County of only 11,700 residents. Of the 3400 cardholders more than 240 are children. Many other children use their parents’ cards.

Due to funds donated to the Friends, the current Carrabelle library building was opened in 2002. And through donations, grants and a USDA loan, the current Eastpoint building and administrative offices were opened in 2013.

Join us for the Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries on Wednesday, December 11, at 5:00 pm at the Carrabelle Branch Library. There will be a special presentation to Sarah Marxsen, refreshments and highlights of the year.