“Ever wondered about a library that moved? That’s the story of Sumner Library. Right here before us stands a remarkable building. It’s a testament to community resilience and adaptation. Sumner Library first opened its doors in 1912. It wasn’t in this beautiful Tudor Revival building though. It started in a rented store. Imagine the cramped space filled with eager readers. Many were Jewish immigrants learning English. They poured over books in Yiddish and Hebrew. The library’s collection of these languages was entirely ‘read out’ by 1913. Such was the demand.
This wasn’t just a library. It was a vital community hub. A haven for those seeking knowledge and connection. In 1915 Sumner Library found a new home. This stunning building was constructed thanks to a Carnegie grant. Architect Cecil Bayless Chapman designed it. Its L-shaped brick design with a central tower is an architectural gem.
But even this beautiful new building proved too small. Just one month after opening it was overcrowded. The children’s room was bursting with young readers. Adults barely had space to move. Sumner Library kept growing. It continued to serve the evolving community. First predominantly Jewish then African American. It even housed Finnish materials at one point. The library’s collection reflects its diverse community. It includes the Gary N Sudduth African American History and Culture Collection.
Sumner Library wasn’t immune to change. In 1938 it moved. Yes you heard that right. The entire library was carefully moved 100 feet. This was to make way for road widening. Imagine the effort involved. Six men painstakingly moved the building one-eighth of an inch at a time. Books were carefully protected during the relocation. The cost was a staggering $32 000. More additions followed over the years expanding the library’s capacity. A 2004 renovation preserved historical features while modernizing the space.
Throughout its history Sumner Library offered much more than books. It provided English and citizenship classes. It hosted clubs and events. It became a space for literacy programs. For generations it has been a center for learning and community building. Famous visitors like Maya Angelou and James Meredith graced its halls.
Sumner Library is more than just a building. It’s a living archive. A testament to the enduring power of community and the transformative role of libraries. A story written in brick and books. Take a moment to absorb this history. Feel the weight of the stories contained within these walls.”