Pender County broke ground on the new Hampstead Branch Library, a 20,000-square-foot facility honoring Judy Holly Sidbury and opening in summer 2027.
Pender County marked a major milestone for local library services on Wednesday, May 6, with a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Hampstead Branch Library. The project represents a significant investment in one of the county’s fastest-growing areas and is designed to expand access to learning resources, community programming, and gathering space for residents of all ages.
Library Named for Judy Holly Sidbury
The new Hampstead Branch Library will be named in honor of Judy Holly Sidbury, a longtime advocate for library services and a founding member of the Pender County Friends of the Library. The naming recognizes a generous donation made by her husband, Al Sidbury, in support of the project.
What the New Hampstead Library Will Include
The 20,000-square-foot facility is scheduled for completion in summer 2027. Once open, the library is expected to offer expanded space and new amenities to meet the needs of a growing community.
Planned features include:
• A larger children’s area with an expanded collection
• A dedicated teen room
• Two large meeting rooms for community events and programs
• Eight private study rooms
• A semi-covered outdoor courtyard for reading and gatherings
Community Partners and Project Team
County leaders, library supporters, community members, and project partners attended the ceremony to celebrate the start of construction and the community collaboration behind the project.
Daniels and Daniels Construction is partnering on the build. During the event, the Topsail Township Friends of the Library also announced a $500,000 donation to support the new Hampstead Branch Library.
Opening Timeline
The Judy Holly Sidbury Hampstead Branch Library is expected to open in summer 2027. When complete, it will provide a welcoming space for residents to read, learn, meet, and connect—while strengthening library services across Pender County.
