Main Library Marks 50 Years of Building Knowledge with Community Event
The public is welcome when the Main branch of the Public Library of Albuquerque/Bernalillo County marks its 50th anniversary with a day of celebration on Saturday, February 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This milestone event will honor the library’s history, architecture, and enduring impact on the community with a lineup of engaging activities and special guests.
The event includes a resource fair with presentations, activities, refreshments, and extended hours at Friends of the Public Library Bookshop featuring a 1970s themed display and giveaways.
“Public libraries are the heart of a community, providing free access to resources and a welcoming space for all,” Mayor Tim Keller said. “Fifty years in and the Main Library continues to play a vital role in fostering literacy, connection, and making Downtown better for families.”
At 11 a.m., First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller will deliver an official library proclamation, followed by remarks from Rep. Melanie Stansbury and New Mexico Library Association President Julia Kelso. In addition, Joe Sabatini will present on the history of the Main Library and architects Edie Cherry and Erik Mease will discuss the architectural significance of the landmark’s Brutalist design.
A guided tour of the three-level building will begin at 1 p.m. followed by a live concert by guitarist Michael Anthony at 2 p.m.
Since its opening in 1975, the Main Library has been a cornerstone of literacy, knowledge, and community engagement in Albuquerque. Designed by renowned local architect George Clayton Pearl of Stevens, Mallory, Pearl, and Campbell (SMPC), the three-story, 104,577-square-foot structure is a striking example of Brutalist architecture. Located between 5th and 6th Streets on Copper Avenue NW, the building was conceived to be a modern and flexible space, capable of evolving to meet the city’s growing needs. The library’s importance extends beyond its architectural significance. In 2019, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its role as a key cultural and intellectual institution.
Over the past five decades, the Main Library has adapted to technological advancements, community demands, and the changing landscape of downtown Albuquerque while remaining a vital public resource.
The Albuquerque Public Library system traces its origins back to 1901, when it first opened in Perkins Hall with a modest collection of 2,400 volumes. Since then, the library system has expanded significantly, with 19 branches serving residents throughout Bernalillo County. As Albuquerque’s literary and cultural hub, the Main Library continues to uphold its mission of providing free access to knowledge, fostering lifelong learning, and strengthening the community. The 50th Anniversary celebration invites all residents to explore the library’s rich history and bright future.
For more information, visit abqlibrary.org.