Searcy Celebrates Grand Opening of New Janett and Larry Crain Memorial Library

The City of Searcy is proud to announce the grand opening of the Janett and Larry Crain Memorial Library, a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the needs of our growing community. The library officially opened its doors to the public after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, September 18. This modern 33,000 square foot library is more than just a place for books – it’s a community hub that offers new and expanded services for all ages.

"This facility represents the future of our community and the importance of accessible education, technology, and resources for all citizens," White County Regional Library System Director Darla Ino said. 

The new library has a wide range of innovative features, including:

Teen Library: Featuring a program/media/game room, a recording studio, and a study room, this space provides teens with a dedicated area to learn, collaborate, and grow.

Children’s Area: With 30% more shelf space and a program room, the Children’s Area ensures young readers have more room to explore and engage in library programming.

Small Business and Career Center: This specialized resource center offers tools for job seekers and small businesses, including software like Canva and Adobe, and one-on-one assistance from library staff.

U.S. Passport Acceptance Facility: One of only two passport offices in White County, making it easier for residents to apply for a passport and get necessary photos.

Meeting Rooms and Study Spaces: With six rooms available to reserve, the library can host everything from individual study sessions to large group meetings.

Stu’s Brew Coffee & Espresso: Offering indoor, outdoor, and drive-thru service, the coffee shop makes the library an inviting space to relax and connect.

Exhibition Gallery: Hosting traveling exhibits and local arts, this gallery is designed to showcase creativity and culture in Searcy.

“The new library is not just a place for books; it's a place for community engagement,” Chairman of the Library Fundraising Committee Jan Smith said. “From passport services to the Small Business and Career Center, we’re offering resources that cater to modern needs, helping individuals and businesses alike.”

Funding for the project involved collaboration from both city and county leaders as well as significant fundraising efforts. Nearly half of the funds for the library were raised with help from the community, including $2 million from the late Larry Crain, Sr. and $386,000 from the Larry & Janett Crain Charitable Foundation.

“On behalf of the entire Crain family, we are honored by the naming of the Janett and Larry Crain Memorial Library,” Chris Crain said. “It recognizes my parents' love and dedication for the community of Searcy and really all of White County. They exemplified leadership through a lifetime of serving numerous local businesses, charities, and Searcy First Methodist Church. I look forward to this beautiful new library aiding the development of the next generation of entrepreneurs, community leaders, teachers, doctors and more. I also look forward to enjoying the facilities with my grandchildren and the next generations of the Crain family.” 

To learn more about the Searcy Public Library, visit whitecountylibraries.org.