WILLIAMSBURG 一 The James City County library saw about 250 attendees at the birthday bash held in honor of the 30th anniversary of its opening on Aug. 18.
The party featured treats, face painting, children’s crafts, games, giveaways and a special performance by longtime library entertainer Jonathan Austin.
James City County Library opened in July 1996 as the second branch of the Williamsburg Regional Library system. Built to serve the county’s rapidly growing Norge area, the $5.5 million facility opened with a collection of 75,000 items and more than 30 public computer terminals.
“I remember it was just so exciting to have [the library] building. It was so new, and … now we have added so much with the playground, the idea studio, the teen room,” said Eletha Davis, outreach services director for the Williamsburg Regional Library who was also there when the building first opened.
Today, the James City County Library serves babies and toddlers attending storytime to students working on homework, teen activities in the Teen Room and adults learning new skills or exploring new hobbies. Throughout the year, the library also hosts programs and events for families and continues to adapt its technology and resources to meet the community news.
In 2026, the library recorded 76,607 visits, 11,175 program attendees and 3,283 meeting-room uses.
“I think it’s amazing that the library is able to offer the kids such an adventurous time to be here… ” said Andrea Millan Nguyen, one of the parents in attendance. “While they’re reading and checking out they’re also able to learn the history of the 30 year anniversary of the building,
