Take a look back with us as the Greenville County Library System celebrates 100 years of public library service! The Greenville Public Library Association was chartered in May of 1921 to establish and maintain a free public library and to promote the “Modern Library Movement” in the City and County of Greenville. We celebrate our rich heritage today with a look back over the last 100 years.
May 20-September 13
Visit the Hughes Main Library to enjoy the in-person exhibit celebrating 100 years of public library service. The Greenville County Library System’s humble beginnings can be traced to a vacant store room on East Coffee Street featuring some 500 volumes; today this number is over 719,900. In 1921, local businessman, philanthropist, and textile magnate, Thomas F. Parker garnered enough community support to create Greenville's public library, and became its first Chairman of the Board. What started in a small store in downtown Greenville has grown to include 12 facilities, a bookmobile, and a robust website that offers access to downloadable and streaming resources as well as learning and research databases.