Clayton Library Closes for Renovation, Programs & Digital Services Continue
Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library will close to the public on Monday, May 5 as staff prepare to relocate materials and services to a temporary location. While access to the library’s physical collection will pause during this move, programs and digital services for readers of all ages will remain available throughout the transition.
Library staff will continue offering many of the programs the community enjoys most, including Storytimes, Exploring STEAM, Knit Nights, and other favorites. Most events will take place at Clayton Town Hall and The Clayton Center (111 East Main Street). A full list of upcoming activities is available at claytonlibrarync.org.
Library Manager Melissa Poole says the team felt strongly about providing programs during the transition. “Programs have always been about bringing people together,” she explained. “Even while the library prepares for renovation, this work continues. The library team is committed to staying connected with the community. The locations may change, but the experience remains the same.”
In addition to ongoing events, digital resources are available 24/7. With a library card, residents can instantly access eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and online tools for learning, research, and entertainment. These resources are easy to explore at any time through the library’s website.
For those who still want to check out physical items, their library card works at any NC Cardinal Library across North Carolina. People can visit the statewide catalog at clayton.nccardinal.org to find a convenient location and keep their reading routines going strong.
In the meantime, those who have items checked out from Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library can keep them a little longer. The due dates will be extended until the new temporary space opens this summer, and no late fines will be charged.
Behind the scenes, the library team is working hard to prepare both the existing space and the temporary location at the former Lipscomb’s Learning Center (446 E Second Street) in Downtown Clayton. The temporary location is scheduled to open in July 2025 and will offer a curated collection of materials along with other programs and services.
“There is a lot of careful planning happening right now,” said Poole. “The staff is packing the building and getting ready for the next chapter. Everyone is also preparing the temporary site, so the Summer Reading Challenge can begin right on time. It is a team effort.”
The library’s current building will undergo a $2.5 million renovation to modernize and improve the facility for future generations. The project is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
To learn more about the renovation, view design plans, or stay up to date on temporary services, visit claytonlibrarync.org.
