Friends Help Write The Next Chapter Of The Clayton Library

CLAYTON, N.C. – The next chapter of Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library includes a lasting gift from Friends of the Library, Clayton, NC. The organization contributed $100,000 toward the Town’s recently completed $2.5 million renovation, helping furnish the library with comfortable spaces where people can read, learn, and connect. 

The group presented the donation during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, held Tuesday, June 30, celebrating the completion of the renovation project. Town leaders, library staff, project partners, elected officials, and community members gathered to recognize everyone who helped bring the project to life. 

“I was so excited. I was almost thunderstruck,” said Friends of the Library President Ellen Andruzzi. “I could not imagine how this building had been transformed into such an open space. This gift has been years in the making, and seeing it become part of the finished library is incredibly rewarding.” 

The donation helped purchase furnishings and fixtures throughout the library, creating comfortable places for people to gather, study, attend programs, or simply enjoy a good book. It also supports flexible spaces that can adapt to the community’s needs for years to come. 

“Our mission has always been to support the library,” said Andruzzi. “We have been saving for this day for years, and when the renovation became a reality, we were ready to help.” 

That commitment goes far beyond this renovation. Friends of the Library is a nonprofit organization that supports the library through fundraising, volunteer service, and community outreach. The group helps fund programs, technology, resources, and special events while encouraging more people to discover everything the library has to offer. 

“We feel like we are part of the library family,” said Andruzzi. “I hope people walk through these doors and discover just how much the library offers. Whether they come for a book, a program, or a place to spend time, there is something here for everyone.” 

The newly renovated library, located at 100 South Church Street, reopened to the public on Monday, July 6. The community is invited to celebrate the completion of the project during the grand reopening celebration from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, July 11.