Contractors take a look at the storm damage at the Willis L. Miller Library in Valdosta after Hurricane Helene struck the area in September 2024. Photo courtesy Leslie Partridge / South Georgia Regional Library
Initial damage included a collapse in the adult nonfiction corner of the building, the roof caving in, and flooding in the building which caused over 2,000 items to be damaged. Partridge says that since many of the books were older the library will not replace them, but instead plans to buy new books for the location with money budgeted for materials.
Repairs and renovations to the building are extensive.
“ A corner of the building and the back wall of the library collapsed, causing significant damage throughout the library. The collapsed portion of the building will be torn down and rebuilt. Since there were four inches of water throughout the entire building, caused by the break in the sprinkler line and main water line, all flooring needs to be replaced, along with two feet of drywall throughout the library. HVAC and plumbing systems were damaged and will need to be repaired,” said Partridge.
“ As of right now, we are still waiting to receive the estimate from the construction company before repairs can begin,” said Partridge.“ Hopefully, we will have that estimate by the end of September. Things should start moving more quickly after that.”
A roof cave-in due to Hurricane Helene did serious damage at the Willis L. Miller Library in Valdosta, as shown in this photo taken in the aftermath of the storm in 2024. Photo courtesy Leslie Partridge / South Georgia Regional Library
October 2025 | Valdosta Scene 19