Libraries are changing, and Cabarrus County is changing with them.
Long gone are the days of stuffy, quiet spaces. Walk into a Cabarrus County Public Library and you’ll likely be greeted by a children’s storytime session or a community group meeting rather than a “shhh!” from behind an intimidating desk.
The County currently operates five library branches, with new Mt. Pleasant and Afton Ridge locations planned as combination libraries and active living centers.
The mixed-use facilities will house all the resources Cabarrus libraries offer, including a wide variety of books, information, materials, programs and resources along with the total wellness services offered by the County’s Active Living Centers.
“Libraries are one place in our community where everyone is welcome,” said Library System Director Melanie Holles. “Library staff love helping people and are committed to being open and welcoming. These new combined facilities will allow us the opportunity to connect more people in our community with our services.”
Active Living and Parks Director Londa Strong agrees.
“This cooperative effort will result in visitors having more amenities to utilize,” Strong said. “We envision grandparents enjoying the Active Living Center while their grandchildren are participating in an activity at the library—it’s a win-win for all.”
Cabarrus County Library and Active Living Center at Mt. Pleasant and Virginia Foil Park
Sitework of the Cabarrus County Library and Active Living Center at Mt. Pleasant and Virginia Foil Park is expected to begin in September of 2023, with an anticipated opening in late fall of 2024.
The roughly 20,000-square-foot facility will be located at 1111 N. Washington St., near Gordon Funeral Home of Mt. Pleasant and Cabarrus Family Medicine. When visitors walk through the main entrance, they’ll be greeted by an informational reception area directing patrons.
The current design for Virginia Foil Park features a playground, three ball fields, restrooms, storage area and concession stand, with several other amenities being considered.
The current Mt. Pleasant Active Living Center is owned by the town of Mt. Pleasant. The town has agreed to let the County continue their lease of the building as the Mt. Pleasant LunchPlus Club site. This will allow the County to continue providing nutritious meals to qualifying Cabarrus County residents ages 60 and above.
For more information on Cabarrus County LunchPlus Clubs, visit www.cabarruscounty.us/Government/Departments/Human-Services/Adult-and-Family-Services/LunchPlus-Clubs.