Building a Future of Knowledge
Help Us Write Our Next Chapter—Expanding the Barbee Library
Help us create a vibrant community hub by supporting our library extension project. Your contribution will enhance resources and space for everyone.
The building expansion project is budgeted at $257,000. The Brunswick County Commissioners have committed to matching the FOLSOI fundraising effort up to $150,000. FOLSOI expects that the furnishings and audio/visual/technology costs will bring the total project cost to $300,000.
Every dollar raised brings us closer to unlocking county matching funds.
We invite friends, donors, and local businesses to help us turn the page to the next chapter of Barbee library’s future.
Together, we can raise $150,000 and secure the matching funds needed to expand our programming space.
Use the QR code to donate today!
Before
After
Our Vision for the Library
We are committed to enriching the Southport & Oak Island communities through the expansion of our library facilities. This project aims to provide additional space for educational programs, community events, and a larger collection of books and digital resources. By supporting this initiative, you are investing in a brighter future for our community, ensuring that our libraries remain a cornerstone of learning and connection.
Current view of rear of Barbee library
AI rendering of rear of Barbee library after expansion project
Project Details
The current meeting room at the Barbee Library is L shaped and can only seat 27 people. The plan is to slice off the end of the current meeting room (closest to the current door) to make a small square meeting room accommodating 6 – 8 people. The rest of the current room (as well as a portion of the back parking lot) will be be enclosed, forming another square meeting room that can accommodate 53 seated patrons with maximum occupancy of 105 people. The architectural firm, Sawyer Sherwood & Associate of Wilmington, has developed the plan.
Page Turners – $1 – $99
Join the effort to expand the library.
Book Lovers – $100 – $249
Support expanded story times, author talks, book clubs, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Chapter Champions – $250 – $999
Help fund furnishings, shelving, and flexible programming space.
Stack Stewards -$1,000 – $2,499
Strengthen the foundation of community programming and educational outreach.
First Editions – $2,500 – $4,999
Create a space for literacy to grow and for community engagement and learning.
Legacy Patrons – $5,000+
Make a lasting impact on generations of readers and learners to come.
Key Benefits of the Library Extension
Expanded Learning Spaces
The new extension will offer dedicated areas for workshops, study groups, and small meetings, fostering a conducive environment for learning and collaboration.
Community Event Venue
The extension will include a versatile event space, allowing us to host a variety of community programs, from author talks to educational seminars, enriching the cultural fabric of our area.
Upcoming Fundraising Events
The Constitution
Join us for a screening of the documentary “The Constitution” presented in conjunction with the town of St James at the Homer E. Wright Event Center. The event is free for residents, but seating is limited and registration is required. Tickets will be available starting May 1st.
May 21, 2026 7 – 9 PM
FREE
Help Us Expand Our Library
Your support is crucial in helping us build a brighter future for our community. Contribute today to our library extension project and be a part of creating a space that inspires learning and growth for generations to come. Click below to make a difference!