The library began humbly in 1946 when 39 citizens paid dues. They purchased a modest collection of 289 books. David J. Harkness, former head of the University of Tennessee Extension Department, was the leader in the effort.

In 1948, the State Library System came into existence. Campbell County was included in the Clinch/Powell Region. Mrs. Nona Godwin volunteered her time as librarian. The library was located upstairs in the First National Bank building. the local Kiwanis Club paid the utility bills. Mrs Hugh Finley was the first paid librarian and the library was open 10 hours per week. Mrs R.O. Cusick and Mrs W.C. Duel also served as librarians.

In 1961, the library moved to the first floor of a local hotel owned by Mr Eblen. In March of 1965, the library relocated to the brand new Municipal Building. Operating hours were increased to 17 per week.

Mrs Dorothy Potter served as librarian for 26 years. Hours were gradually increased to 23 per week. Mrs Linda Bowlin was hired as an assistant.

Municipal Building

The old library in the Municipal Building and patrons there:

The library moved into the brand new Tramell Building at 104 N. Main St. Public access computers were added to the library in 1999 by the Gates Foundation.

Mrs Potter retired at the end of 2003. Mark J. Tidwell was hired as Library Director. Hours were expanded to 25 per week. Kimber Monday replaced Linda Bowlin as Library Assistant.

At present time, hours have been expanded to 30 per week. JPL averages 11 patrons per hour and 15 items per hour being checked out. For fiscal year July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007, JPL recorded 15,008 visits and circulated 18,208 items.

The Tramell Building where the present day library is located:

Due to the economic downturn, funding is tight for almost all libraries across the nation. Jellico Public Library is no exception. Regretfully, new item acquisition is at a virtual standstill. Hopefully things will be better in the near future and new items can be added to our collection for your convenience.

Jellico Public Library has seen a 24% increase in patron visits along with a 30% increase in circulation. See the graphs of circulation and patron visits for 2007 & 2008. Hard economic times have made the public library the new destination of choice for lots of folks that formerly opted for other forms of paid entertainment. Public libraries all across the nation have experienced this phenomenon. We are currently in the hard position of providing more services, to lots more patrons, with a much tighter budget.

The Twighlight Series by Stephanie Meyer, is currently, by far, the most popular series going. They're more than just a series, they're a phenomenon. The movie is also immensely popular. There is currently a waiting list for these books, so don't just rush in thinking you can check out the whole series.

New public access computer available. We received an additional public access computer via grant. It was installedc in November. We currently have available five workstations for public use. One must sign the "Acceptable Use Policy" before using a terminal. Those under 18 are required to have a parent or legal guardian present to access the Internet (per Campbell County Library Board policy).

Time Limits: Time Limit Manager Software will limit sessions to 40 minutes per patron. This assures that those waiting for a terminal will have a fair chance for computer use.

Filtering Software: Our public workstations must have filtering software in place. A new software package will be in control of site access for 2008. We must comply with the "Children's Internet Protection Act". Please remember, Internet access is a privilege. There are many legal hurdles involved in providing this service to the community, in a public setting where people of all ages are served.

Contact Us

Jellico Public Library
104 N. Main St
Suite 2
Jellico, TN 37762
423-784-7488
Fax: 423-784-8745
E-mail: jellico2@birch.net