Atlanta – On Election Day 65% of Fulton County voters agreed on a $275 million bond referendum that will significantly enhance their public libraries. The bonds will provide funding for 8 new libraries, expansion of 2 renovated libraries, and renovation of 23 libraries. Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System is the largest in the state of Georgia and this will be the most extensive library building program in state history.

The plan maintains 34 libraries, the current number of libraries in the system, by eliminating leased spaces and its oldest libraries. Fulton County last issued a library bond in 1985.

“This vote affirms the value people place on their public libraries and their understanding of what libraries provide, especially in challenging economic times. The significant improvements this vote will bring is the missing piece of functional, beautiful buildings to complement the excellent service we have always provided. This is also a tremendous day for the children of Fulton County, particularly those served by severely inadequate facilities or no facilities at all.” said John F. Szabo, Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System Director.

A summary of the Library Master Plan is available on the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System website, www.afpls.org.