Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library renovation nearing completion

The renovation of the historic wing of the Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library in Brundidge is nearing completion. The wing will house the children’s library, the genealogy section and non-fiction reading materials.

The wing will also have two rooms dedicated to DVDs, recorded books and other electronic listening and reading devices. Previewing options will be available for the recorded materials.

Prior to the renovation, a separate addition to the Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library was funded through state grants and local funds. The expansion was needed to accommodate the increase in library traffic and the volume of reading materials and the addition of computer stations. The library’s Oak Street wing opened more than a year ago. At that time, the renovation of the historic wing began.

Britt Thomas, Brundidge city manager, said the renovation has gone well and the historic wing should be something in which all Brundidge citizens and patrons of the library can take pride.

The Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library is listed on the Alabama Register of Historic Landmarks and Historic Places. The historic wing is the former home of Tupper Lightfoot, who was a philanthropist and strong supporter of education and the town’s young people.

He provided money for many young people to attend college. But, perhaps, his biggest contribution to the education of Brundidge youths was in the lending of books. Lightfoot was an avid reader and had an extensive library. He loaned and gave books to countless young people and adults.

In making application to the Alabama Register for the city’s public library to be named in Lightfoot’s memory, the committee wrote that the spirit of a library had long existed in the Tupper Lightfoot home through his generosity in the sharing of books.