The Gwinnett County Public Library-mountain Park Branch at 1210 POUNDS ROAD S.W. serves as a vital community resource for the residents of Lilburn, GA and the surrounding areas including the Five Forks Trickum Road corridor and the neighborhoods bordering Arcado Road. This branch, situated approximately half a mile east of the intersection of Pounds Road and Killian Hill Road, caters to a diverse population encompassing young families, students from nearby Mountain View High School and Trickum Middle School, and senior citizens residing in the numerous established subdivisions like Parkview and Killian Forest. Opened in 1998, the Mountain Park Branch replaced a smaller bookmobile service that had previously served the area, reflecting the growing need for accessible learning and community gathering spaces in this rapidly developing section of Gwinnett County. Unlike some of the larger library branches, Mountain Park offers a more intimate and personalized experience, fostering a strong sense of community among its patrons. The library actively engages with local schools, offering after-school programs and literacy initiatives designed to support student achievement. It also hosts regular workshops and events tailored to the interests of adults, ranging from computer skills training to book clubs and author visits. The presence of the library near the Mountain Park Aquatic Center and the Mountain Park Activity Building makes it a convenient stop for families participating in recreational activities. A notable historical aspect is the area’s connection to the Cherokee Nation, with traces of early settlements predating the city’s formal establishment. The library’s collection includes materials related to local history, allowing patrons to delve deeper into the region’s past. Furthermore, the library often partners with the nearby Lilburn City Hall for civic engagement events and voter registration drives. The library is a convenient resource for locals seeking passport services, avoiding the need to travel to larger facilities in Lawrenceville or Duluth. The demographics served by the library are quite diverse, with a significant Hispanic and Asian population contributing to the area’s rich cultural tapestry. The library provides bilingual resources and staff members to cater to the needs of these communities. The library also offers free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and printing services, bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the modern information age. The Gwinnett County Public Library system has invested heavily in digital resources, offering e-books, audiobooks, and online databases that patrons can access from anywhere with an internet connection. This has been especially beneficial for students and researchers who require access to scholarly articles and primary source materials. The Mountain Park branch also plays a crucial role during election cycles, serving as a polling place for local, state, and national elections. This underscores its importance as a civic institution dedicated to promoting democracy and civic participation. The library’s commitment to lifelong learning is evident in its diverse range of programs and services, which cater to all ages and interests. Whether it’s a toddler attending story time, a teenager researching a school project, or a senior citizen learning how to use a smartphone, the Mountain Park branch provides a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone to achieve their educational goals. The Friends of the Mountain Park Library group actively supports the branch through fundraising and volunteer activities, demonstrating the community’s deep commitment to its success. They organize book sales, host special events, and advocate for increased funding for library services. The library is also a hub for local artists, showcasing their work in rotating exhibitions that add beauty and vibrancy to the space. These exhibitions provide an opportunity for local talent to gain exposure and connect with the community. The library regularly assesses community needs and adjusts its programs and services accordingly, ensuring that it remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of its patrons. The Mountain Park branch is truly a cornerstone of the Lilburn community, providing a vital space for learning, connection, and civic engagement. As of 2023, the library saw an average of 350 visitors per day, highlighting its continued importance to the community. The branch has a dedicated children’s area with computers pre-loaded with educational games, located just past the main circulation desk and to the left. The library’s programming is extensive, offering everything from resume-writing workshops to coding classes. These programs are typically advertised via flyers in the library and on the Gwinnett County Public Library website.
