While we prepare for our Fairhope Public Library issue in October, we’re sharing some of the stories that readers have submitted about their own Alabama libraries. Shortly after we launched, Robyn Kelly submitted this story about how the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library helped her family feel at home in a new state and town.
We moved from Fort Worth, Texas to Florence, Alabama at Christmas-time, 2022. I had a toddler, a baby, and a husband who worked hectic hours. We did not know a single person in the Shoals area, so I was alone with the babies most days. Florence is a small town with limited resources for young families, so I felt myself floundering.
Remembering how much I loved going to the library with my own father, I took my little boys to the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library hoping for a storytime or just anything aimed at young children.
I was met with an outstanding Youth Services Department. There were activities for seemingly every age bracket—it felt like there was something going on every day. Along with a vast collection of books, there were toys, puzzles, ride-on toys, and all manner of things to keep young children occupied.
More importantly, every staff member we met was absolutely extraordinary!
Over the next 2-1/2 years, we participated in music and stories for babies, toddler storytime & crafts, and reading classes for young children. We read thousands of books to win countless prizes during the Summer Reading Programs, and we participated in nearly every age-appropriate activity for my two boys. The library became our focal point. The boys made friends with other children; we built wonderful relationships with the staff members, one of whom became our part-time babysitter.
I cannot overstate the positive impact that FLPL had on my little family.It was a safe, wonderful place that nurtured learning, friendships, and growth for both boys.
-Robyn Kelly on bringing her children to Florence-Lauderdale Public Library
My eldest son learned to read through one of the library reading classes. Both boys discovered a love of books and learning. I cannot overstate the positive impact that FLPL had on my little family. It was a safe, wonderful place that nurtured learning, friendships, and growth for both boys.
In early 2025, my husband’s job took us back to Texas, and we tearfully said goodbye to our library community. Our time in Alabama may have been brief but the impact the library has had on our boys will be lasting.
Thank you to Robyn for sharing her story and photos! Remember to share your Alabama library stories with us at this link.
