https://www.GoodMorningGwinnett.com
Construction on the first themed library in the Southeast is now underway. Gwinnett officials, in partnership with the city of Lawrenceville, the Hooper-Renwick Legacy Preservation Committee and the Gwinnett County Public Library Board of Trustees, broke ground on the new Hooper-Renwick Themed Library today, Oct. 26, at 56 Neal Blvd., Lawrenceville.

The finished 25,000-square-foot facility will include library amenities, community space and exhibits, which will showcase stories, accomplishments and memorabilia related to the school and highlight the Black experience in Gwinnett

The themed library will revive and expand the existing 11,400-square-foot Hooper-Renwick School building, which once served as the only public high school for African American students in Gwinnett.

Gwinnett County’s District 4 Commissioner Marlene Fosque recognized the impact the library will have on both the school’s alumni and future generations.

“This historic facility will highlight the laughter and joy that was shared here, but also the challenges and hardships that the students faced through segregation and desegregation,” Fosque said. “This special community gathering place will celebrate how far we’ve come and acknowledge the work still to be done, providing amazing opportunities for residents and guests to learn and grow for generations to come.”