Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill
The Jasper Public Library is hosting an exhibit on Carl Elliott, an Alabama congressman known for his work in expanding educational opportunities.
Titled “Carl Elliott: Congressman of Conscience,” the exhibit shares his journey from growing up on a farm in Vina, Alabama, to his time in Congress from 1949 to 1965.
The exhibit highlights some of his significant legislative accomplishments, including the Library Services and Construction Act of 1956 and the National Defense Education Act of 1958, both of which helped expand educational access across the country. A key focus of the exhibit is Elliott’s belief in providing educational opportunities regardless of race or economic status, as reflected in a quote from his acceptance of the Profile in Courage Award, where he emphasized his dedication to ensuring everyone had the chance to succeed.
This exhibit offers visitors insight into Carl Elliott’s contributions to education and civil rights, presenting his life story through photos and key achievements during his time in office.
“We regularly have exhibits here at Jasper Public Library, but generally, those items like artwork will go away after the exhibit as they don’t belong to the library. But in alignment with the Walker County bicentennial last December, the recent exhibits have been done with items housed in the Elizabeth T. Wiggins Heritage Room here at the library,” said Jennifer Cohron, Heritage Room librarian. “This one is special because Carl Elliott’s name is on the building; we’re part of the Carl Elliott Regional Library System. That’s certainly unique, as libraries are generally named only after the communities they are in. I don’t think we’ve ever done an exhibit on Carl Elliott before, so it is certainly overdue.”
The exhibit is on display through December at the Jasper Public Library – 98 18th Street E, Jasper, AL 35501. Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Closed Sundays and Holidays. WL