Auburn Avenue Research Library

Explore African American Culture and History

Located in the historic Sweet Auburn district, the Auburn Avenue Research Library is as historic as the collections it houses. In 1921 the original Auburn Avenue Research Library structure located at 333 Auburn Ave., was the first public library branch for African-Americans in Atlanta. The Auburn Avenue Research Library has more than 20,000 books and 600-plus manuscript collections along with artifacts, recordings, oral histories, periodicals, 250,000 photographs and other items. Some of the library’s collection traces its roots to the Negro History Collection of Non-Circulating Books that was first organized in 1934.

Reasons to visit the Auburn Avenue Research Library

1. The Auburn Avenue Research Library has more than 20,000 books and 600-plus manuscript collections along with artifacts, recordings, oral histories, periodicals, 250,000 photographs and other items.
2. Some of the library’s collection traces its roots to the Negro History Collection of Non-Circulating Books that was first organized in 1934.
3. Also at the Auburn Avenue Research Library are 800 works of art representing African and African American artists. Literary holdings include pieces by Harlem Renaissance writers.
4. Auburn Avenue Research Library offers lectures, workshops and other programs.

Insider tips

• No liquids or food are allowed in the reading room; but you can secure items in the lockers outside the room.
• Leave yourself plenty of time because once you are there, you’ll be inspired to keep digging. It’s a wonderful place for heading down rabbit holes.
• One treasure at Auburn Avenue Research Library is a 1773 book of poems by Phyllis (sometimes spelled “Phillis”) Wheatley.

Know before you go

Where is the Auburn Avenue Research Library located?

The Auburn Avenue Research Library is located in the Sweet Auburn district of Downtown Atlanta at: 

101 Auburn Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30303

Are tours of the Auburn Avenue Research Library available?

Tours of the Auburn Avenue Research Library are available by reservation only and must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance.