At 100, A Nashville Library Stands As Symbol Of Rebirth And Endurance

Nashville celebrated the centennial of its historic East Branch Library on Wednesday, commemorating one of two remaining Carnegie public libraries in the city.

Built in 1919, the branch was one of more than 2,000 libraries funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

And Tim Walker, executive director of the Metro Historical Commission, says the project arrived right when East Nashville needed a boost. The area was still rebuilding after the devastation of the 1916 fire, which claimed 650 buildings and left 3,000 people homeless.

“It was really, in my opinion, a symbol of rebirth, pride and endurance for this community,” Walker said. “And this community has not only survived, but it thrives.”

To mark the occasion, the Nashville Public Library offered cake, a puppetry performance, remarks from the mayor and a live performance by the marching band from neighboring East Magnet School.

East Branch Manager Sara Morse noted that many of the band members hang out at the library after class, making them regulars alongside families that go to storytime and other long-time patrons.

“It’s not just the books and the buildings that make the library,” Morse said, “it’s the people that make the library what it is.”