9 Reasons to Visit the Downtown Nashville Public Library
The Nashville Public Library system is one of the best that I’ve encountered, and the Main Library location in Downtown Nashville is particularly worth visiting. I’m a huge fan of books and reading, and I go to my local library location on a regular basis.
Seeing the Main Library was one of the things on my 2023 Nashville Bucket List. I’ve been twice so far in the past three months, and I’ve been amazed every time.
If you’re in Nashville, as a local or as a visitor, here are just a few of the reasons why you should check out the Main Library.
1. The library has free parking.
While free parking at a public library might not be exciting for most people, given the cost of parking in Downtown Nashville, it’s kind of a big deal. Library visitors can park in the library garage for free for the first 90 minutes. Parking is $3 each half hour after that. If you’re just visiting the library though, you should be able to get in and out within the free period.
Be sure to validate your parking at the machine on the first floor near the entrance. Rates are different after 5 pm and on weekends, so check the library website for more details.
2. The main library building is beautiful!
The current Main Library location opened in 2001, but thanks to the classical architectural elements, the building feels much older. Fodor’s named the library as one of the 11 Most Beautiful Libraries in the United States. Once you’ve been inside, you’ll agree they got that right.
3. There are so many books plus tons of other resources.
With such a large library system, there are plenty of books in circulation. I’m an avid reader, so I do occasionally come across a book I want to read that I can’t put on hold at the library. It isn’t often though.
Books aren’t the only resource the library offers. You can use the digital streaming and downloading options to get access to music, movies, tv shows, and magazines. You can also get a community passport for free admission to some of the attractions in Nashville. So far, I’ve been able to see the Country Music Hall of Fame this way.
You can also borrow board games from the library. A recent addition to the Nashville Public Library is the Library of Things. Patrons can borrow musical instruments, tool kits, ice cream makers, and a variety of other items you might need from time to time.
4. Get inspired in the East Reading Room.
The East Reading Room is one of my favorite places in the library. The beautiful room is the perfect place to study, work, or read when you need to focus.
5. The Children’s Department is absolutely magical.
Don’t be surprised at the number of parents you see bringing their children to the library. The children’s area is one of the best I’ve seen. There are over 100,000 books and movies for children, and that’s only part of the draw.
Children can watch the productions at the children’s theater or attend storytime. There’s an entire activity room with hands-on activities and coloring. Plus, so many other fun features like a small climbing wall and a huge play area. I used to work at a children’s museum, and the Children’s Department at the Nashville Library has a similar feel.
6. Stop for a history lesson at the Civil Rights Room.
The Civil Rights Room contains materials related to the Civil Rights Movement that took place in Nashville and across the United States. Besides the collection of primary sources, the room also has a lunch counter to represent the students from the city’s black colleges who called for an end to segregation in public places. Black and white photographs from the time period are on display as well.
7. Take a look around the Votes for Women Room.
Another permanent exhibit in the library is the Votes for Women Room. The exhibit was created for the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment. Here you’ll find information and videos about women’s history in America as well as the role Tennessee played in the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution.
8. Spend a spring afternoon in the Margaret Ann & Walter Robinson Courtyard.
The courtyard is part of what makes the Main Library so special. Right in the middle of downtown, visitors can enjoy a beautiful outdoor space inspired by Renaissance Italian piazzas. In the summer and fall, the library hosts a series of concerts in the courtyard.
It’s been too cold to sit in the courtyard each time I’ve visited so far. Now that the weather is warming up, I’m looking forward to spending some time there!
9. Check out the special events and programs.
The Nashville Public Library system as a whole has fantastic events and programs for all ages. One of the coolest programs at the Main Library is the Wishing Chair Productions, a children’s program featuring puppets that takes place in the theater.
For adults (and teens), there are book clubs, writing clubs, yoga classes, and so many other interesting programs. The library is such an incredible resource for the community.
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Whether you’re a Nashville resident or a visitor, it’s worth stopping by the Main Library in downtown at least once. If you live in Nashville, I’d also encourage you to visit your local library branch.
The Nashville Public Library system has so many great features that I’m sure I’ve missed some of them. Feel free to share your favorite parts about Nashville libraries in the comments!
For more information, check out the Nashville Public Library Website.
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