First Regional Library makes funding request to Horn Lake aldermen

Aug. 20, 2025 – The First Regional Library (FRL) system, which includes the Horn Lake branch, is requesting $160,000 in funding from the city for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year. The request comes after a year of significant growth in library usage and programming.

FRL Library Director Lori Barnes, along with several other library officials, presented to city leaders, highlighting the Horn Lake branch’s success. According to the presentation, the Horn Lake library welcomed nearly 55,000 visitors and had more than 43,000 checkouts in the last fiscal year. The library also hosted 281 programs, with a strong focus on youth-oriented events, which saw attendance of nearly 8,500 children.

Library officials noted the Horn Lake branch has seen an 18 percent increase in program attendance and a 47 percent increase in attendance for summer reading programs alone. They attributed the growth to the city’s expanding population and the library’s commitment to community partnerships.

“I get more positive comments from patrons about the Horn Lake library than any of our other libraries,” Barnes said. “We’re incredibly busy, and we love serving your constituents.”

Horn Lake Alderman LaShonda Johnson expressed her appreciation for the library’s programs, noting that they offer more than just books and serve as a vital community hub. The library’s head branch librarian, Janiece Gorman, highlighted a number of successful partnerships with local agencies, including a “Jobs of Life” demonstration with the Horn Lake Fire Department and a forensic science program that drew a large, engaged crowd.

The library is also planning a gardening series for adults and a partnership with Horn Lake Parks and Recreation for an America’s 250th anniversary celebration in June 2026.

Among other business at Tuesday night’s Board of Aldermen meeting, Horn Lake Fire Department Capt. Bradley Woods is retiring after 23 years of dedicated service to the city and its citizens. Woods, who will have his last day on Aug. 29, was honored at Tuesday’s meeting.

Fire Chief David Lineville spoke with “deep regret” about Woods’ departure but also wished him well in his next chapter. Linville noted that many firefighters don’t stay long enough to retire, but Woods has dedicated his life to the profession.

“He’s young, but he says he’s going to work for his second retirement somewhere else,” Linville said.

Woods began his career with the Horn Lake Fire Department in 2002. During his tenure, he rose through the ranks, serving as a firefighter, driver, lieutenant, and battalion chief before becoming the fire inspector.

In a brief speech, Woods thanked the elected officials and fire department for their trust and for the opportunity to protect the citizens of Horn Lake.

“I appreciate everything y’all have done for me, and the city for affording me a way and putting their trust in me to protect the citizens of the city of Horn Lake for all these years,” Woods said.