RUSSELLVILLE — “A gateway to opportunities for generations” is how the new Norris Public Library and community center was described Tuesday during a groundbreaking ceremony.
U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt was among those at the event after securing $3,892,000 in federal funding for the project through the Community Project Funding initiative.
The facility, when completed in about a year, is slated to become a centerpiece of community life and access in the area.
During a special called meeting at the site, the Russellville City Council unanimously voted to name the facility the Norris Public Library, honoring the Norris family for donating the land for the project.
“We are deeply grateful to the Norris family for their land gift and to Congressman Aderholt for securing the full funding we need,” said Mayor David Grissom. “The Norris Public Library will be a gateway to opportunities for generations to come.”
Grissom presented Aderholt with the Key to the City in appreciation of his continued support for Russellville and rural Alabama. The council also passed a resolution recognizing Aderholt for delivering the federal investment.
“This facility represents an investment in literacy, connectivity, and community for Russellville,” said Aderholt (R-Haleyville). “I’m honored to have helped secure the resources our community needs — a public library, broadband access, and space for gathering — so families here can thrive.”
The funding will finance construction of a library and multipurpose community center on the donated land behind City Hall.
The facility will provide broadband internet, educational programs, meeting space, and public access to literature and technology — services the current downtown site cannot accommodate.
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