LAPLACE — On April 9, residents of the parish voted yes for the St. John the Baptist Parish Library’s millage renewal.

Library leaders said the vote of confidence will allow them to continue serving local patrons for the next ten years. Having the millage pass this year is symbolic as they are celebrating 50 years of existence.

The theme for the golden anniversary is “St. John the Baptist Parish Library, 50 Years of Spreading Knowledge from the Printed Page to the Digital Age.”

“It’s hard to imagine that our system began in 1966 as a demonstration library,” Tammy Houston, library system assistant director, said.

Back then, the library occupied one room in the Police Jury Building on Main Street in LaPlace. Through the years, it has grown to include four branches and a mobile unit for the shut-ins.

The renewal of the millage will continue to help maintain, construct and operate all four libraries successfully, library leaders said.

During October, there will be celebrations for patrons of all ages to enjoy. More information will be provided in the upcoming months.