Charlotte has had four main libraries on the same site since 1903. Here’s a look at them, and what the changing architecture says about our city.
Charlotte’s 1903 Carnegie Library, one of thousands built by industrialist Andrew Carnegie. Photo: UNC Charlotte, Atkins Library, Special CollectionsThe 1956 Charlotte Library that replaced the Carnegie building had a vastly different design sensibility. Photo: Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, Charlotte Mecklenburg LibraryThe 1956 Charlotte Library that replaced the Carnegie building on the same site. Photo: Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, Charlotte Mecklenburg LibraryClear glass gave an open view into the 1956 building: What you see is what you get. Photo: Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, Charlotte Mecklenburg LibraryThe current Main Library opened in 1989. Photo: Ely PortilloThe plaza in front of the current Main Library is dominated by a fountain. Photo: Ely PortilloThe current Main Library has a “tunnel” that separates some of the sidewalk from the building. Photo: Ely PortilloThe new library, adjacent to Spirit Square. Design Architect: Snøhetta; Architect of Record: Clark Nexsen; Rendering: LMNBThe new library will include five stories, two outdoor terraces and a cafe. Design Architect: Snøhetta; Architect of Record: Clark Nexsen; Rendering: LMNBThe new library, adjacent to Spirit Square. Design Architect: Snøhetta; Architect of Record: Clark Nexsen; Rendering: LMNBLobby of Charlotte’s new main library. Design Architect: Snøhetta; Architect of Record: Clark Nexsen; Rendering: LMNB
