Funding will support a Teen Center remodel, expanded literacy programs, and a new NASA-connected learning experience for local students

A $25,000 grant will support a Teen Center remodel, expanded literacy programs, and a new NASA-connected learning experience at the DeFuniak Springs Friends of the Library, benefiting Florida’s oldest continuously operating library and creating new opportunities for local students and families.

On April 7, the St. Joe Community Foundation presented funding to support a remodel of the library’s downstairs Teen Center, along with expanded literacy programs and new technology for local students.

For more than 25 years, the Friends group has helped fund reading programs, book access, and community initiatives that reach readers of all ages across DeFuniak Springs.

This latest investment will help take those efforts a step further.

Plans include enhanced programming for middle school students and the launch of a NASA-supported learning platform, giving students in grades 6 through 9 access to live telescope data and real-time space science experiences from inside the library.

“This goes with our education pillar, and we like to support early childhood literacy, anything literacy related,” said April Wilkes, Executive Director of the St. Joe Community Foundation. “Education is one of our biggest priorities.”

Friends of the Library President Mark Hambley said the funding will also support continued programming for both young readers and seniors, while expanding access to technology in a way that complements traditional reading.

That includes tools like Tonies, screen-free audio systems designed to help children engage with storytelling, music, and independent learning in a hands-on way.

With the Teen Center upgrades and new programming on the horizon, the library continues to evolve as a place where access, learning, and community come together.

Learn more about DeFuniak Springs Friends of the Library on their Facebook page.