Beaufort County Library Provides Free Library Cards to Hurricane Helene Evacuees

Beaufort County Offers Support to Hurricane Helene Evacuees

Beaufort, South Carolina – In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact, many residents from areas hit hard by the storm have found refuge in Beaufort County, staying with friends and family while their hometowns undergo much-needed cleanup. In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Beaufort County Library has stepped up to lend a helping hand by implementing a temporary waiver of the “non-resident card” fee for those who have temporarily relocated to the area.

What You Need to Know About the Library Card

For those who have been uprooted from their homes in states such as Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, the library card will allow these individuals access to a variety of library resources during their stay in Beaufort County. Normally, non-resident individuals would need to pay a $40 fee to obtain a card, but in light of the hurricane’s impact, the library has waived the fee for eligible individuals.

If you or someone you know is impacted by Hurricane Helene and has found temporary lodging in Beaufort County, there are a few simple steps to obtain your library card:

1. Bring a valid ID along with a current address from your home state.
2. Provide the address of your temporary residence in Beaufort County, whether it’s an AirBNB, a hotel, or a friend’s or relative’s house.

This special card will be valid for a full year, providing access to a treasure trove of library materials and resources. It’s a great way to stay connected and find a little comfort during what can be a tough transitional period.

A Helping Hand in Tough Times

Library Director Amanda Brewer Dickman expressed a heartfelt sentiment about the library’s role during this critical time. She said, “All across the Lowcountry, communities are coming together to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene. This is something our library can do to provide comfort and connection while people are away from home.”

It’s a wonderful reminder that even in the face of natural disasters, kindness and support from the community can help make a difference. The library already provides free library cards to Beaufort County residents aged 4 and older, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore all that the library has to offer.

More Ways to Help

As Beaufort County welcomes its new temporary residents, families and individuals are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity. The library is not just a source of books and resources, but also a community hub where individuals can find much-needed solace, connect with others, and perhaps discover new hobbies to fill their time while they await the repairs and recovery in their hometowns.

For more detailed information on the temporary library card process and other services offered, residents can visit the Beaufort County Library’s website. The support extends beyond just the library, with many local businesses and organizations rallying to provide assistance across the county.

In Conclusion

In these challenging times, community support can make all the difference. If you or someone you know has relocated due to Hurricane Helene, make sure to check out the Beaufort County Library for essential resources and a comforting space to spend some time. Remember, we’re all in this together, and small acts of kindness can go a long way in healing and reconnecting communities.