What was known as the Cairo Public Library had its beginning in January of 1939 located on the second floor of City Hall with a commitment to serve the community. In 1964 the Library moved into a new building on North Broad Street, a gift of the Roddenbery Family to the community.

Wessie Connell was the library's director for the first 48 years until her death in 1987. “Miss Wessie” was a legend to Georgia and the library world. Following her death, Frank Bennett, Technical Services Librarian, served as acting director for nine months.

David E. “Dave” Eden was hired in June of 1988 as the second library director. He brought automation to the library and directed the building expansion which was completed in November of 1989. He resigned in January 1992, to take the position of director at Thomas County Public Library.

After an extensive search, Alan Kaye became Roddenbery Memorial Library's third director on July 1,1992. As those before him he has continued to keep the library's commitment to public service, assisting all individuals and groups in Grady County in their educational, cultural, economic, and social advancement. He has a personal goal to make Roddenbery Memorial Library an exceptional service to the community by offering the newest materials and services available at all times.