LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The St. Mary’s County Commissioners recognized the 75th anniversary of the St. Mary’s County Library with a proclamation Tuesday, highlighting the library’s role as a cornerstone of education, equity and community connection.
Commissioner President Randy Guy read the proclamation and called the library a tremendous asset to everyone in St. Mary’s County.
“For 75 years, St. Mary’s County Library has stood as a trusted place for learning, exploration and community connection, enriching the lives of generations of residents,” the proclamation read. It also emphasized the library’s efforts to adapt to changing needs by offering multimedia resources, technology training and lifelong learning opportunities.
Michael Blackwell, director of the library, thanked the commissioners for their support and pointed to the Leonardtown Library as an example of the benefits from community investment.
“They’ve been so vital for our continued growth and success, and for the Leonardtown Library,” Blackwell said. “If you’ve never been there, go look at it! It is a great library and a testimony to their efforts.”
Blackwell said that the St. Mary’s County Library system would celebrate the 75th anniversary with three public events:
- Read, Play, Celebrate — Saturday, Oct. 4, 2:30–4 p.m., Charlotte Hall Library
- LexiCon — Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Lexington Park Library
- Diamond Jubilee — Saturday, Oct. 25, 1–4 p.m., Leonardtown Library
Library Deputy Director Mary Ann Bowman highlighted the success of the summer reading program. She said the staff of the library system were responsible for that success.
“We had a record-breaking summer reading program this year, so many kids in the library enjoying the space and the programs,” Bowman said. “We have an amazing staff, and I really thank them for all that they do.”
Mary Lee Russell, a former Leonardtown Library branch manager and current St. Mary’s County Library Foundation board member, said that establishing the Leonardtown Library was a long and worthwhile effort. She also noted that the attached senior activity center gives St. Mary’s County accessible community activities to explore.
“I am one of many that worked 10-plus years to help get that Leonardtown Library built,” Russell said. “The Leonardtown Library, with the Garvey Center, is just a jewel for this county.”
Library branch managers encouraged the public to take advantage of their local library. Amy Fordham, branch manager of the Lexington Park Library, echoed the call for community participation.
“Our organization is constantly innovating with a spirit of service,” Fordham said. “It is your place to learn and discover things and come in to have fun. We really encourage everyone to come in from our youngest citizens to our oldest. We have something for absolutely everyone.”
The St. Mary’s County Library system operates three branches across the county, serving as free public spaces that provide access to information, technology and programs for all ages.
Fast Facts About The St. Mary’s County Library System
Find St. Mary’s County Library cards here.
Library Hours
- Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday: 1–5 p.m. (Lexington Park Library only)
Leonardtown Library Drive-Thru Window Hours
- Monday–Thursday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Locations
- Charlotte Hall Library: 37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622
- Leonardtown Library: 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650
- Lexington Park Library: 21677 FDR Blvd., Lexington Park, MD 20653
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