Nashville Public Library offers many treats
Published: Jun 7, 2009
Far from the days when a city’s public library served only as the primary source for books, the Nashville Public Library’s main branch is alive with programs, technology, art and magnificent architecture.
The library was born in 1904 and was originally called the Main Carnegie Library, named after Andrew Carnegie who donated the money to have it built. The current building, constructed in 2001, has 300,000 square feet of space and is referred to simply as Main Library. There are now 20 branches throughout the city.
The library is located in the heart of downtown and just steps away from the bustling tourist shops and nightlife locales. Its exterior, faced with Alabama limestone, leaves an impression of grandeur and regality. Inside, the view is just as majestic: a quiet dominance, the high ceilings and Georgia marble floors are breathtaking.
The library is divided in three floors offering visitors a vast collection of periodicals, quiet study spots and an extensive multimedia selection. There are nooks and quiet spots for reading and studying throughout the building.
Various events are hosted by the library regularly, including children’s story telling, art viewings, daily trivia and more. The library also offers free wireless Internet access for those who want to bring in their laptops. Public computers with Internet access are also available for free use, and include useful applications such as Microsoft Office. There are also copy and fax machines for use by the public.
Need a break from the books? How about a bite to eat? Provence Breads and Café, a small French eatery that offers pastries, sandwiches and soups, is located on-site. Outdoor and indoor seating is available. The café is closed on Sundays, but open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Free parking is offered for the first hour at the Nashville Public Library Garage in the bottom of the building. Entrances to the garage are on Sixth and Seventh avenues between Church and Commerce Streets. Accessible parking for those with disabilities is available on the fourth level of the garage near the library’s entrance.
- by Leah Caudle , Nashville Reporter for HelloMetro
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