Special Collections Library Celebrates 100 Years of Preserving ABQ’s History with Community Event

The Public Library of Albuquerque/Bernalillo County marks a century of history, community, and knowledge with the 100th anniversary of the Special Collections Library on Saturday, March 22. A community celebration, open house, and special programming highlighting Albuquerque’s first public library will take place from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Originally opened on March 23, 1925, this landmark served as the city’s first dedicated public library and has since become a vital research hub, preserving Albuquerque and New Mexico’s rich history. The celebration highlights the building’s architectural significance, enduring legacy, and continued role in connecting generations through knowledge and local heritage.

“The Special Collections Library is a time capsule of Albuquerque’s past,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “For 100 years, it has been a vital resource, connecting the community to the rich history that defines us and it will continue to do so for generations.”

Event highlights include:

1:30 p.m. - Special Recollections: The Story of the Old Main Library (1925-2025) 

• The world premiere of a new documentary chronicling the history of Albuquerque’s first public library. This film brings the century-old landmark to life through the memories of former staff and patrons. Produced by Tony Della Flora for GOV-TV, the documentary captures the spirit of a library that has served generations of Albuquerque residents.

3-5 p.m. - Open House & Special Exhibits

• Explore the history of the library, including rare photographs, original documents, and artifacts from the past century.
• Visit the Center for the Book to see historic printing presses in action and meet the volunteer who will bring the art of letter press printing to life.
• Enjoy a 1920s jazz performance by Le Chat Lunatique as they transport guests back to the era when the library first opened.
• Light refreshments will be available for guests in Botts Memorial Hall.

Built in the Pueblo-Spanish Revival style, the Special Collections Library was designed by City Engineer Frank Kimball, with decorative interior paintwork by Gustave Baumann, which was recently restored. The library’s rich history includes serving as the city’s first dedicated library building, hosting art exhibitions, and housing irreplaceable research collections.

Today, the Special Collections Library remains a vital resource for historians, and students, with unique materials such as the Ernie Pyle Archives, postcards, and rare books dating back to the mid-1500s. The Center for the Book continues to educate visitors about the history of the written word, offering hands-on experiences with historic printing techniques.

As the Special Collections Library embarks on its next century, it continues to uphold the mission of providing free and open access to historical resources for the community. Through building tours, educational programs, and Snail Mail Socials, the library remains committed to engaging new generations with Albuquerque’s rich history.For more information, visit abqlibrary.org.