Harper Memorial Library 1931-1981
Back then…
In 1974 a group predating our present organization was formed to support the relocation of the original A.K. Harper Memorial Library, built in 1931, that the library had outgrown.
Blount County Friends of the Library (FOL) was organized in the 1970’s to create community interest and support for fund-raising efforts to build the McGhee Street Library. In 1981 the Friends then joined with the community in relocating the Library’s collections. The Friends of the Library then became a support group for the library staff.
At that time, the library was expected to use that facility for 30 years (until 2011). But the rapid growth of Blount County greatly impacted library usage and in 1999, just 18 years after moving into the McGhee Street location, the county acquired the old Sky City property and began construction of today’s grand facility. Our award-winning library building was completed in May 2002.
Blount County Library from Greenway
Today…
It continues to delight and inspire visitors. The Blount County Friends organization has grown to include over 800 members. It continues to focus public attention on the library, cooperate with the library staff in developing services for the community, supply assistance to the staff, and raise funds for special needs.
