The Most Iconic Libraries in North Carolina
It is a library's role to play a sanctuary. To build a bridge between that realm of peace and the clamor of the external world, and while typically the library is never the focus (it is the literature), there are rare exceptions to the rule that see libraries on the pedestal—they become iconic, for one reason or another. The exceptions always have their stories to tell, and it just so happens that in North Carolina, some libraries have risen far above their typical role. In that very spirit, here are the most iconic libraries in the state that have evolved beyond their traditional roles.
Greensboro Public Library
With a focus on mind over matter, the Greensboro Public Library has done the town sharing its namesake justice. For 123 years, those at the library have kept pace with the times while also never forgetting the past. A visitor may find it surprising that, along with an extensive collection of literature, both old and new, the library features a computer lab with 12 workstations and over 100 publicly available computers scattered throughout the building. The library is no stranger to crowds either, as conventions and other large events regularly take place on its grounds. As recently as August 2025, the library hosted an Anime Con.
Perhaps most impressive is the philosophy of the library itself, which makes the presence of art in its halls and wings known. Including the likes of Nature's Encominium by Chip Holden (2004) and Vision Quest by C. Shana Gregor (1998), the idea is that the art of reading and literature is not so different from that of a canvas or a sculpture. Art bridges both matter and mind, with a little more emphasis on the latter than the former.
A closer look at Greensboro would reveal that, while massively important to the town, the library is part of a multifaceted experience that only Greensboro can offer. Places like Bernie's Berries have grown quite popular because they offer the authentic experience of handpicking strawberries, and the Carolina History and Haunts tour offers a spooky side of the town: a candle-lit ghost tour of downtown Greensboro that gets into the gritty stories and local haunts of the area.
Jackson County Public Library
Located in Sylva, the Jackson County Public Library has undergone extensive remodeling since 2009. Originally a courthouse and justice center, this historic building was constructed in 1914 by industrialist C.J. Harris and has since witnessed the town of Sylva's growth. At the heart of Main Street, the building enjoys a hilltop view of Sylva along with flower glades and the nearby mountains. Complete with outside patios for reading, it is no wonder that the building also houses the Jackson County Historical Association and the Jackson County Arts Council.
The fame enjoyed from its scenery alone has elevated the building to Sylva's most defining feature, as the Jackson County Public Library is the town's most photographed building. And although there are other notable and iconic places in Sylva, like the Freedom Pavilion (a museum showcasing artwork and artifacts from the Cold War era and even housing pieces of the Berlin Wall) and specialty local restaurants like Lulu's on Main, the Jackson County Public Library remains the primary reason why many flock to this tiny mountain town. Overall, the library's literature has been overshadowed by the structure that houses it, proving that aesthetic appreciation can be the main allure of a library.
The Folk Art Center (Robert W. Gray Library)
Located in Asheville, the Folk Art Center at first glance seems to be an exotic art gallery, complete with rotating exhibits, shops, pop-up craft fairs, and other special events. And while newcomers and tourists visiting Asheville are drawn to the glamour and cozy atmosphere of the art center, many would be surprised to discover that this multifaceted structure also houses a massive library. Named after one of the Folk Art Center's founders, the Robert W. Gray Library has an impressive catalogue of over 20,000 volumes of books. Though none are in circulation, the books are available for all to photocopy or to read on the grounds.
The Folk Art Center, and by extension, the Robert W. Gray Library, share the vision to "collect, preserve, and make available for research materials concerning the appreciation and knowledge about traditional and contemporary crafts—particularly the craft heritage of the Southern Appalachian region." And to that aim, they've served admirably; their 100 years of serving artistry and beauty are quickly approaching in 2030. While it's true the arts center is not the sole attraction in Asheville, with a commitment to the humanities and education (see the Biltmore Estate for both opulence and history), the Folk Art Center pays tribute to its roots while also ensuring it is not forgotten by the times.
Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library is probably the most iconic library in the state, and any list without it is incomplete. Situated in Charlotte and named after Billy Graham, the famous televangelist who was widely known to have significant political sway (with friends like Lyndon B. Johnson), the library doubles as a museum that documents the life and importance of North Carolina's most famous and explicitly religious celebrity. Opening to the public in 2007, evangelists from across the country have scurried to Charlotte in order to browse the books and exhibits.
And since the library is located in Charlotte, the birthplace of Billy Graham, there is no shortage of unique spots exclusive to the city. Carowinds, for instance, is a local and visitor hotspot because it is a 400-acre theme park of roller coasters, shops, and sweet confections. The NASCAR fans can also rejoice, as Charlotte holds the only NASCAR Hall of Fame, complete with tours, exhibits, and all. Fans and museum-goers have the chance to meet new NASCAR legends, such as Harry Gant.
Chapel Hill Public Library
Sharing its nomenclature with the town it resides in, Chapel Hill Public Library is one of those great community projects that never let up. Its new-age architecture and glass entrance alert one to the kind of library ahead: a sleek, clean design perfect for spending hours in and letting the natural sunlight fall onto the pages of a book as one reads. What makes the Chapel Hill library stand out, however, is its Friends of the Library program. The program is exclusively volunteer-run to raise funding for the library through the sale of donated books. Averaging about $150,000 per year, the Chapel Hill Public Library is able to keep itself in top condition.
And with its funding secured, it's able to host various events and programs that give back to the community. Including its 'Right to Read' (a program meant to fight the censorship of literature) and its mission values of transparency and building connections, the library is a well-known staple of the town of Chapel Hill. And since its inception in 1958, it has elevated the town's presence and, along with the help of Sutton's Drug Store (a 1923 novelty with sweet confections and milkshakes), has transformed Chapel Hill into a place no longer just known by locals.
Libraries In North Carolina
Libraries are often not the center of attention when traveling to a destination, but what that means is that the ones that do draw the crowds, whether that be for their architecture, scenic views, or vast collection of literature, are all the more special. In the case of these North Carolina gems, these libraries have stood the test of time by either adapting or weathering the storm. Their stories are varied, but what they symbolize and mean is that the spirit of books still thrives in an age right in the middle of the digital revolution. These iconic libraries not only have literature but also embody the vision of it and carry it forward.
