Libraries are great community resources, and the Knox County Public Library has a strong network of 20 branches, including the Lawson-McGhee main library downtown.
As Mary Pom Claiborne tells us each Wednesday, patrons can find books and movies online. Best of all, your library card is free.
In Powell, the library is on Emory Road across from Powell Church. Its architecture is unique – built to resemble a mountain lodge, complete with fireplace. There’s a community room that can be scheduled for events/meetings. And next door is the 12-acre Collier Preserve – home of Knox County’s first (but not last) storybook trail.
Collier Preserve was developed by Legacy Parks Foundation on land donated by Dr. Bob and Louise Collier. After conservation easements were applied, the land was deeded to Knox County for maintenance through the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Powell branch librarian Heather Jennings said Parks & Rec replaces the storybook quarterly, so adults can read to younger kids as they move along the trail. The branch itself is heavily invested with children’s books and videos, conveniently stored on low shelves so kids can make choices.
Year-round, but especially during the summer, the library hosts guest readers and others to stimulate young patrons. If you’ve never been or haven’t been lately, stop by the Powell Library. And bring a kid.