The Carnegie Building in downtown Newnan re-opened with much fanfare just a month ago. Holding to its mission of providing a positive impact on the community the Carnegie has introduced the honor book system and is set to begin “Story Time” for children next week.

“We are excited to introduce the honor book system to the Carnegie,” said Media Coordinator Amy Mapel. “I think it will enhance the reading opportunities for the Carnegie patron.

Though essentially a reading room library, the honor book system works through donations for the purpose of trading and sharing reading experiences with others, Mapel said. Explaining the criteria of the program, Mapel said it must be a book the reader loved and one others would want to read. The books should be in excellent condition, hardback or paperback, fiction or non-fiction, adult, young adult or children’s books.

Patrons can choose an honor book from the selection, take it with them and return it later with their comments in the space provided for the next person to enjoy, Mapel said. All books are one way donations and become part of the honor book system, she added.

Next up at the Carnegie will be the start of “Story Time” for children beginning Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. The Thursday events will include a mix of music, puppets, stories and crafts targeted for three and four year olds.

“I look forward to sharing my love for books with the children in our community,” said Media Assistant Dianne Oliver.

For more information on Story Time or to reserve a spot call (770) 683-1347.

Built in 1904, the Carnegie Building is one of the most historically significant structures in downtown Newnan. The building served as a library until 1987 when a new facility was constructed on Hospital Road. With its unmistakable “City of Homes” signage on top of the building, citizens recognize the Carnegie when they drive through historic downtown, said Newnan spokesperson Gina Snider.

Residents present at the re-opening last month found the bottom floor of the building serving as a reading room with the second floor outfitted as a community meeting space. Among its many offerings, the Carnegie brings magazines and newspapers, computer workstations and Wi-Fi access, a gallery for local exhibits, meeting rooms with warming kitchen and programs for adults and children. The Carnegie will serve the public with a non-circulating reading room, children’s area and an art gallery.

The Carnegie’s $1.5 million renovation was funded by the city of Newnan’s General Fund and partly by 2007 Special Local Option Sales Tax.

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