Former librarian honored with book donation

The Richmond Hill Friends of the Library recently honored the memory of longtime library director Kate Barker by donating six books to add to the Bryan County–Richmond Hill Public Library’s collection of local historical texts.

The donation is consistent with Barker’s mission to provide library users with literature and resources that inform, engage, and benefit them. It is also a nod to her legacy as an avid reader and promoter of historical knowledge and culture.

The books purchased through the Richmond Hill Historical Society are part of Arcadia Publishing’s bestselling Images of America series, written by local authors and including:

• Walking tours through Old Savannah

• The Savannah Races

• Forever through the marshland

• Ghosts of the Civil War in Central Georgia and Savannah

• Historic Sites of Savannah

• The Ghost Stories of Savannah “This collaboration reflects the spirit of community that Richmond Hill and Bryan County have,” said Orna Swanson, president of the Richmond Hill Friends of the Library and vice president of the Richmond Hill Historical Society. “It’s a wonderful way to honor Kate’s memory, who supported this community in so many ways, from military service to working as a library director. It’s just a small token of the immense appreciation we have for her.”

Barker worked at the Bryan County–Richmond Hill Public Library for nearly 30 years. She retired in 2021 and passed away unexpectedly in late March 2024.

She was known for her kindness, generosity and helpfulness and left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

“Kate meant so much to so many,” said Betty Rosenthal, former library board member and current treasurer of the Friends of the Library. “As an organization dedicated to supporting the library, the Friends wanted to honor the tremendous impact Kate had on those around her. Completing the library’s collection with works dedicated to local culture and history seemed like a wonderful way to honor her memory while supporting the Richmond Hill Historical Society.”

Books can be checked out through the Bryan County–Richmond Hill Public Library. Contact the library for more information.

The Richmond Hill Friends of the Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the programs and services of the Bryan County–Richmond Hill Public Library and enriching the cultural offerings for the residents of South Bryan County.