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Petty, who began as a part-time volunteer at the Argie Cooper Public Library in 1995, became full time in 1996. She served as the technology and children\u2019s librarian and was the assistant director for three years before becoming director in 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOur children\u2019s programs are growing. During our interactive story time, which takes place each Wednesday, 20 to 30 kids attend. We kept having to borrow the meeting room and decided we didn\u2019t want to keep doing that. Moving the children\u2019s room gives parents an area where they can go in, close the door, and not worry about their toddler running off. The history room is important, and now it\u2019s easier to find. I believe this move was best for both areas,\u201d Petty said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to library statistics, during June 2025, 16,130 adults and 2,373 children had library cards, and over 3,600 patrons visited. Our library provided over 50 free programs, and over 700 patrons attended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ever dreamed of sewing your own quilt, or learning to crochet? Interested in joining a book club, enrolling your child or teen in a weekly activity, or forming friendships with others who share your unique interests? Look no further than the Shelbyville-Bedford County Library.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Benjamin Franklin created the first lending library on a subscription basis in 1731. The idea took flight, and our nation quickly embraced Franklin\u2019s mission to ensure patrons had access to materials that promote unlimited education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Locally, the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary curated a library inside the Bedford County Courthouse. However, it was lost in the fire of 1934. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary created the Bedford County Memorial Library in 1948 using a vacant passenger room inside the railway depot. When the General Services Administration granted permission in 1964 for the circa 1915 post office \u2014 where the Shops at Main & McGrew exists today \u2014 to be used as a public library, the library was given the name Argie Cooper in honor of former Gov. Prentice Cooper\u2019s mother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2014, the Shelbyville-Bedford County Library broke ground on its current building. On July 26, it celebrated its 10th anniversary with food trucks, cartoons, crafts, and activity booths, and held a ribbon-cutting for its upcoming addition \u2014 an outdoor patio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe received a $700,000 broadband grant through Connected Communities Facilities.\u201d Petty added, \u201cBut we must match this by 10%. We still need to raise $70,000. With these funds, we are thrilled to add a covered patio enclosed by a fence. The roof will be covered with solar panels, which will provide electricity. Patrons can sit outside, work on their computers, read, or hang out.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n They recently added a lay-flat scanner and a 3D printer to their makerspace, and a tech grant provided the funds for a desktop laser cutter and engraver called a Glowforge. A \u201clibrary of things\u201d is also in the works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Baking a cake and need a custom pan? Check one \u2014 or several \u2014 out with your library card. Other things offered will one day include sewing machines, costumes, small tools for use in home and DIY projects, STEM kits for hands-on learning, craft supplies, telescopes, binoculars, microscopes, sensory kits, outdoor and recreation gear, board games, puzzles \u2026 the list goes on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The library recently expanded its service hours. It is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/goodnewsmags.com\/shelbyville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/5-1-1024x683.png\")
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