March 25, 2012
Foundations
INSIDE: University campus shaping up, 2E
Work begins toward facilities, 2F
Center tops expectations, 1G
A
of Forsyth
community is often defined by its amenities, both natural and manmade. In Forsyth County that can range from Lake Lanier and Sawnee Mountain to new schools and public facilities. These features form the very foundations of the community and enhance the high quality of life its residents enjoy. The impact of some, such as the Cumming Aquatic Center or Forsyth Conference Center, has been immediate. That of others, including new recreation centers and a rising college campus, is imminent. From its strong library system to vibrant arts scene, few would argue the area is on firm footing. Join us in Progress 2012 as we visit some of the foundations of Forsyth. A special section of the
online at www.forsythnews.com
PROGRESS 2012
Arts& Community Library grows by ‘bricks and clicks’ Online or in person, system serving many
Foundations
of Forsyth
By Alyssa LaRenzie
alarenzie@forsythnews.com
The Forsyth County Public Library continues to branch out from its first location in Cumming. Residents have three branches from which to choose. With the addition of two more, however, the county will have a central location and one in each quadrant, said Carla Beasley, assistant director for planning and facilities. “That will give us really good coverage throughout the county,” Beasley said. Aside from the Cumming library, the Sharon Forks branch serves the south side of the county and Hampton Park in the northeast.
Post Road library, in the early stages of construction, is expected to open in 2013 in western Forsyth. Another branch in the planning stages will serve residents in the Matt community of northwestern Forsyth. “When we actually build a branch, [the usage] explodes,” Beasley said. “Typically, people who don’t live that close to the library just aren’t library users.” Once a branch’s potential service demographics encompass about 30,000 people, she said, it’s time to consider building another. See LIBRARY | 2D
Inside this section
Photos by Autumn Vetter Forsyth County News
T h e s t a ff o f t h e Forsyth County P u b l i c L i b r a r y ’s Sharon Forks branch helps patrons there, above. Left, Carla Beasley, assistant director for planning and facilities, holds a map of the system’s coverage area, including the Post Road location slated to open in 2013.
Centers keeping seniors active, 3D All eyes on theater, 5D