Downtown Library

This postcard shows the main branch of the Atlanta Public Library as it appeared in the early 1950s. Known as the Carnegie Library until 1950, the building named for Andrew Carnegie who was responsible for donating the money used to build and open the facility. In 1950, following a major renovation and the construction of a new wing, the name Carnegie Library was set aside in favor of Atlanta Public Library.

In 1977, both sections of the building were torn down to make way for the new Atlanta Central Library, which opened in 1980 and was designed by Bauhaus-movement architect Marcel Breur. In the past few years, the city has talked about the possibility of closing the current Central Library in favor of a new building elsewhere in downtown. Google map

Main branch downtown library postcard (front)

Main branch
downtown library postcard (back)

Below are three photos from the GSU library that date to the early 1950s. GSU file numbers for these photos are LBGPF3-055n, LBGPF3-055k and LBGPF3-055r.

Contemporary photo: June 30, 2012.