Imagination … one of the many things available at the public library. Whether we’re reading a work of fiction, or accessing information and knowledge, libraries open up our minds, moving us toward creativity and, yes, even a better understanding of nature and humanity. Books open up the world.
The Pack Memorial Library celebrated its Free Library Centennial in summer of 2019 with creative activities and community involvement.
The first library in Asheville was established in 1879 as a subscription library on Pack Square. 40 years later in 1919, it officially became the Pack Memorial Public Library when it opened its doors to Buncombe County residents as a free library.
Pack Library in the Early Days
Since those early days as a free library, Jim Blanton, Buncombe County Public Library Director, says, “Libraries support all stages of learning, from early childhood to post-secondary and beyond. They serve as a primary means for people to obtain the skills and knowledge they need to pursue life goals and ambitions. Ultimately, libraries ensure that we have a vibrant, engaged community, where everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed and thrive.”
HOURS: Pack Memorial Library is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10a – 8p, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10a – 6p, and Saturdays from 10a – 5p.
The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Pack Memorial Library is located in downtown Asheville at 67 Haywood Street and is the main branch in the Buncombe County Public Library System. The first Pack Library was named for George Willis Pack and was located on Pack Square. The current, 56,000-square foot facility on Haywood was built in 1978 and renovated in 2012.
It has over 150,000 items available for perusal and free check out including books, periodicals, CDs, DVDs, and research materials. It also features internet access, free Wi-Fi, word processing, and photocopy services. Pack Memorial is also home to the Bookends Used Book Store, Buncombe County Special Collections (previously the North Carolina Room), Lord Auditorium, and the Thomas Wolfe Collection.
Friends of Pack Library 