“Did you know this library was once called the McCreery Branch?” I ask. The Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library stands before us a testament to history and community.
This isn’t just any library. It’s the second branch ever established in the San Francisco Public Library system. It opened its doors on January 2 1902. Andrew McCreery a generous benefactor donated the land and funded its construction. The original building a beautiful neoclassical structure unfortunately suffered damage in the 1957 Daly City earthquake. It was demolished. A new building designed by Appleton and Wolford replaced it. It opened December 20 1961.
The library’s name changed in 1981. It became the Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library. This honored Harvey Milk a pivotal figure. He was the first openly gay man elected to public office in California. Milk served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Sadly he was assassinated with Mayor George Moscone on November 27 1978.
The renaming of the library wasn’t the only tribute to Milk’s legacy. In 2006 the city renamed a section of 16th Street adjacent to the library. It’s now called Jose Sarria Court. Jose Sarria was the first openly gay man to run for Supervisor in 1961. He’s also known for founding the Imperial Court System a cornerstone of the GLBT community.
The Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch Library is more than bricks and books. It’s a place where history lives. It’s a space where community thrives. It is a vital part of the neighborhood’s story. A story of resilience activism and the ongoing fight for equality. The library stands as a symbol of hope and progress. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity. Communities can come together to build something beautiful and lasting. Isn’t that remarkable?