A Friendly Place for Life-long Learners

When asked how she likes the new High Point Library, Christy Tyson, the library's branch manager, replied without hesitation, "It's heaven!"

The 7,200 square foot library opened its doors in June of 2004, and houses 27,700 books and media — nearly quadrupling in size from its former location. In addition, the library features 15 public computers, Internet access, a meeting room, a study room, and an outdoor reading space.

"This library is just top of the line," said Christy. "I was the branch manager at the former location and was always worried about finding spots for people to study or read quietly. Here, we have so much space; the building was beautifully designed." In fact, there are special seating areas for both teens and adults, and the children's section is marked by four hanging "sky canoes".

Outside, eco-friendly landscaping uses plants to filter runoff from the parking lot before it gets into the storm water system. And at the east entrance, patrons are greeted by the "Scholar's Tree" (sophora japonica), a tree traditionally planted at places of learning throughout Asia.

Reflective of the neighborhood's diversity, the High Point Library offers one of the largest collections of books, magazines, videos and newspapers in world languages other than English. "We have materials in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Somali, just to name a few," said Christy.

The world language collection allows people from all cultures to enjoy the services the library provides. "People live much better lives with information. They can learn about health, government, society," said Christy. "Libraries are the keystone of a democracy."