Edith Lenora Foster

Edith Lenora Foster (March 6, 1906 – August 18, 1996) was an American librarian, educator, historian, and author who played a pivotal role in the development of rural library systems in Georgia. Foster worked as an English teacher before earning a master’s degree in Librarianship from Emory University in 1944.

Her connection to public libraries began during childhood, when she often visited the small library located in Carrollton City Hall. The library closed in the 1920s following the death of its caretaker, Lula Baskin. During the New Deal era, the federal government offered funding to help communities restore public libraries through the Works Progress Administration (WPA). This structural change placed public library oversight under the Department of Education, allowing libraries to share in educational funding that contributed to the long-term growth of Georgia's public library system. With support from Ingram and local businessman Pump Shaffer, she worked with builder J.B. Stallings to retrofit it with flush-mounted shelves, storage compartments, and a stool for patrons. Foster clarified that while the regional board could provide materials and planning support, construction responsibilities rested with the local community; however, she agreed to assist with materials, book selection, and planning support. The bookmobile could hold 1,800 books and up to eight people. It was used to organize and expand Black library services throughout the region.

To address anticipated concerns over integration, Foster consulted with state officials, who advised marking books intended for Black readers with a triangle symbol. This strategy allowed Foster to respond to criticism while continuing to provide equitable access. Despite only one recorded objection from a prominent white citizen, Foster received no formal resistance and successfully implemented the program without disruption.

Awards and accolades In 1953, Foster spoke at the American Library Association’s (ALA) national conference. During the 1950s, she served as President of the Adult Education Section of the ALA’s Public Library Association. She was appointed Director Emeritus of the West Georgia Regional Library System in 1977.

In 1970, Foster was awarded the Governor’s Award in the Humanities. She received recognition from President Gerald Ford in 1974. She wrote a section of the ALA Manual for Librarians titled "Library in the Small Community" about the steps for establishing a rural library. She also wrote books of poetry, local history, and an autobiography titled Yonder She Comes! A Once Told Lib'ry Tale.

By the time of her retirement in 1976, Foster had grown the West Georgia Regional Library System to include eight branches, 72 deposit centers, and a collection of 190,000 volumes.

Death and legacy Edith Foster died in 1996 at age 90.