Mission
To champion literacy, inspire learning, and foster community connection
Vision
To be Greenville County's first choice for exploration, discovery, and information
Library System Statistics
July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024
People & Programs
1.2M+
Total visits across
the Library System
the Library System
191K+
Registered
borrowers
borrowers
118K+
People attended 2K+
Library System
programs
Library System
programs
2.2M+
Visits to Library
System’s website
System’s website
Collection & Borrowing
2.9M+
Circulations of
physical items
physical items
1M+
Electronic items
downloaded
downloaded
850K+
Books and audio visual
materials available
materials available
55K
Books and audio visual
materials were added
materials were added
GCLS History
The Greenville County Library System began in 1921 with 500 books in a storeroom on East Coffee Street. Thomas F. Parker, a local businessman and philanthropist, led the effort and served as the first Chairman of the Board.
In 1923, Parker launched the first ever Bookmobile in the South to meet the needs of Greenville County's mill communities. It’s been serving Greenville County ever since.
Today, the Library System includes 12 locations. The Bookmobile still makes weekly stops, delivering books and lasting memories. From its modest start, the Library remains committed to providing free access to books, experiences, and resources for all.