This library is reported to be the first brand new building, planned, designed and built with public funds for giving library service to Negroes in the state of Mississippi and possibly the first for any city the size of Jackson in the entire south.
Clarion Ledger, Jackson, Miss. April 20, 1956
When this library was opened in Jackson, Mississippi, I was a few months old. I have no childhood memories of visiting this public library. My family lived outside of the city limits of Jackson and we did not have access to this library.
Here is a current picture of the abandoned building located in the historic Farish Street District on North Mill Street.
7 comments:
As a patron of libraries I think it sad to see this abandoned building. I hope there is another library nearby to serve the community. I am glad that libraries are open to people of all colors now as they provide so many outlets for reading and accessing knowledge.
What a beautiful mid-century modern building. Such a shame it is sitting empty. Thanks for sharing this post.
The main library is near this location and serves the area. I love to visit libraries to read newspapers and magazines.
There are several empty buildings in the area. Maybe when the Farish Street area is revitalized it will also include this building.
Sometimes I wonder if Farish Street will ever get the revitalization it deserves. The historic photographs of the businesses on the street are so beautiful.
I patronized this library as a child. It was a marvel--just for us. The previous black municipal library was nothing more than dedicated space on the first floor of the College Park Auditorium. It was across the street From what is now called Jackson State University. The College Park Auditorium was where JSU basketball games and its Commencement exercises were held. Close by was the swimming pool. It was the only City pool open to Negroes--as we were known then.
I remember College Park Auditorium well. My parents would travel from one end of Lynch Street to go downtown to pay bills around the 1st of the month and we would pass by the white building with dark shutters The Hinds County public schools held musical concerts in the building, which is how I visited the building. I was unware there was a library in the building. Thank you for sharing.
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