The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a state-of-the-art facility that serves as the main branch of the Memphis Public Library system. This library is named after Benjamin L. Hooks, a renowned civil rights leader who played a significant role in the American civil rights movement. The library's mission is to provide free and equal access to information, promote literacy and education, and foster a love of reading and learning in the community.
History and Architecture
The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library was opened in 2001, replacing the old main library that was built in 1950. The new library was designed by the architectural firm of Carpenter/Santoro, and it features a striking design that combines modern and classical elements. The building’s facade is made of glass, steel, and limestone, and it includes a large atrium that allows natural light to flood the interior. The library’s design has won several awards, including the American Institute of Architects’ Award of Excellence.
Collections and Services
The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library boasts an impressive collection of over 400,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, CDs, DVDs, and digital media. The library also offers a wide range of services, including free Wi-Fi, computer access, printing and scanning, and meeting rooms. The library’s staff is committed to providing excellent customer service and helping patrons find the information they need.
The library also features a number of specialized collections, including a large African American history and culture collection, a Southern history collection, and a rare book room. The library's archives include historic documents, photographs, and other materials that are available for research and study.
| Collection | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 350,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| E-books | 20,000 |
| Magazines and Newspapers | 5,000 |
| CDs and DVDs | 15,000 |
Programs and Events
The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library offers a wide range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and computer classes. The library also partners with local organizations to provide services such as job training, health screenings, and financial literacy classes.
Children’s Services
The library’s children’s department is designed to be a welcoming and engaging space for kids, with a large collection of children’s books, audiobooks, and DVDs. The library also offers a number of programs and services for children, including storytime, craft classes, and book clubs. The library’s goal is to foster a love of reading and learning in children and to provide them with the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.
The library's children's department also features a number of interactive exhibits and displays, including a mock grocery store, a puppet theater, and a hands-on science center. These exhibits are designed to be fun and educational, and they provide kids with a unique and engaging learning experience.
- Storytime: Mondays and Thursdays at 10:30 am
- Craft classes: Tuesdays and Fridays at 3:30 pm
- Book clubs: Wednesdays at 4:00 pm
Technology and Innovation
The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library is committed to providing patrons with access to the latest technology and innovative services. The library offers a number of computers and laptops for public use, as well as free Wi-Fi and printing and scanning services. The library also features a number of digital media stations, where patrons can access e-books, audiobooks, and other digital content.
Digital Collections
The library’s digital collections include a wide range of e-books, audiobooks, and other digital content, including music, movies, and TV shows. Patrons can access these collections from anywhere with an internet connection, using their library card and PIN. The library’s digital collections are a convenient and flexible way for patrons to access the information and entertainment they need.
The library also offers a number of digital services, including online tutoring, language learning, and test preparation. These services are designed to help patrons achieve their educational and career goals, and they are available 24/7 from the library's website.
- Online tutoring: available 24/7 through the library's website
- Language learning: available through the library's digital collections
- Test preparation: available through the library's digital collections
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How do I get a library card?
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To get a library card, you will need to provide proof of identity and residency. You can apply for a library card in person at the library or online through the library’s website.
What services does the library offer for children?
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The library offers a number of services for children, including storytime, craft classes, and book clubs. The library also features a number of interactive exhibits and displays, including a mock grocery store, a puppet theater, and a hands-on science center.
