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Commemorating its 130th anniversary, Lanier Library is celebrating members in monthly profiles to help  

the community get a better idea of the neighbors who carry the Lanier card and preserve a cultural 

tradition started in 1890. 

One of the first things Bob and Sandy Sammons did when they moved to Tryon from Florida for the first time was join Lanier Library. That was about ten years ago.

“We walked in and immediately loved the ambience of this special historic building, “ recalls Sandy, retired elementary school librarian and author of the Young Reader Series of famous Floridian biographies. Bob, retired IC product engineer from Bell Laboratories, adds, “We both have many fond memories of Lanier and agree that one of the best was meeting Sandra McCall at the circulation desk. We felt at home right away.” 

After four years as members, family matters took them back to Florida. For almost six years, the beauty of the Foothills and the charm of the Lanier Library were only distant calls of nostalgia.

“When we moved back, the Library was closed for COVID,” says Sandy. “As soon as the doors reopened, we renewed our membership. I need libraries in my life and was so happy that the card catalog was still here.”

“Sandra welcomed us back with a warm greeting,” continues Bob. “Since we’d left, I’ve gotten                                                                                        more into biographies and now I also have a new appreciation for the periodicals room. Such a relaxing place.” Sandy praises the children’s book room that had been added while gone. “So bright and cheerful…I’m always interested in the Caldecott and Newberry Award winners.” She also now loves books on self-help, food, and painting.  While she paints, Bob sculpts wood.

They may have different preferences in current reading and artistic expression, but of all that they share after 60 years of marriage, one is a commitment voiced by both, “We’ll always be members.” 

 

Sandy and Bob Sammons