Our
STORY
We are the oldest regional library system in North Carolina with 4 locations and a bookmobile that provides library service to the residents of Cherokee, Clay, and Graham County, North Carolina
The story of how we came to be is intertwined with both community integrity and innovation fueled by need.
For 85 years, the Nantahala Regional Library has served three western North Carolina counties—Cherokee, Clay, and Graham—all situated within the Nantahala National Forest. The library was originally intended for TVA employees handling the extensive construction of Hiwassee Dam, however, continued funding through tax payer support led to the arrangement we have today. The NRL quickly became a noteworthy "experiment" in service administration using combined local, state, and TVA funds. The program garnered nationwide attention, attracting observation from library and education specialists.
After its official organization in 1940, the NRL initially shared space with the Murphy Library in the Carnegie building. Due to rapid growth, the Regional Library endured a series of disruptive moves between 1940 and 1963. After a fundraising campaign and a period of frozen construction funds, the necessary funds were released in 1974 with the announcement of an Appalachian Grant to supplement Library Services and Construction Act Funds. Architect Eric Townson prepared the plans, and the official open house for the new library, housing both the Nantahala Regional Library and the Murphy Public Library, was held on May 16, 1976.
The Nantahala Regional Library celebrated its 50th anniversary on July 27th, 1991 with great success. Today, the NRL continues to serve the Cherokee, Clay, and Graham County citizens through various education, entertainment, and community-based services. Cheers to 85 more years!