More Than Books: Why Every Mableton Neighbor Belongs at the South Cobb Regional Library

Matthew Stover
Jan 29
3 min read

Updated: Jan 30

If you haven’t walked into the South Cobb Regional Library lately, you are missing out on one of Mableton’s most important hubs for resources and connection.

Many people still think libraries are just quiet buildings for kids' storytime or a cozy retreat for getting lost in a great story. But if you talk to Branch Manager Lindsay Harris or Librarian Amanda Sanders, they’ll tell you the truth: it’s where Mableton goes to learn, grow, and take that next big step.

"Every library serves its own neighbors," Lindsay says. "And here, we are a hub for whatever people need right now."

Mableton’s #1 Spot for Technology

Did you know that out of all the libraries in Cobb County, our branch is number one for computer usage?

For many neighbors, the library is the main way to get online and access essential resources. Amanda Sanders, who has been a librarian for over 12 years, says the staff acts as "digital navigators." They help people use translation tools, print return labels, and navigate complex websites.

"We are a safe, non-judgmental space," Amanda explains. "We never judge people for what they’re looking for. They can come in and ask us anything."

The best part for the staff is helping people with their future. They’ve helped many neighbors click "submit" on job applications. Neighbors often come back months or even years later just to say, "I got the job!"

More Than Just Books: The "Library of Things"

"We're more than books," explains Jo Lahmon, Regional Library Manager. "We can provide for you information, technology that we loan, park passes, classes, and programs for all."

At South Cobb Regional Library, you can...

Check out Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks to take home. This is a game-changer for students or anyone who needs high-speed internet for a few weeks.
Start a Hobby by reserving things like a ukulele!
Borrow Park Passes to explore Georgia’s state parks and historic sites for free.

A Place for Connection

The library is designed to be a "third space"—a place that isn't home and isn't work, where you can simply connect with what you need.

Neighbors like Eric use the library to study for his realtor exam and loves the layout. "There’s a lot of space for everybody to sit down and do work," he says. "It’s not crowded at all."
Antoine visits regularly to use the computers and join the programs. "If anyone wants to relax and interact with others, they can do it right here," he says.
Michael who works in Buckhead but lives locally, stops by on his way home from work to check out new releases. He loves to read so much that he’ll often buy books at bookstores like Barnes & Noble, and once he’s done with them, he donates them to the library so other neighbors can experience them too.

Fun, Care, and Community

The library also provides resources for basic needs. Right by the front door, you’ll find Care Cabinets filled with hygiene items. Any neighbor can take what they need, no questions asked.

And it’s not all work and study! The staff gets creative with programs that bring people together:

Prom Swap: A chance for teens to get free dresses and suits for the big dance.
Pokémon Club: A favorite for local kids.
Adult Classes: Everything from hula hooping and belly dancing to a new PG-rated Burlesque program.