About Pack Memorial Library

Pack Memorial Library is the main branch of the Buncombe County Public Libraries system and one of western North Carolina's most storied cultural institutions. Its roots trace back to 1876, when members of the Asheville Reading Club began collecting books for a community library. In 1899, local philanthropist George Willis Pack donated a building to house the Asheville Public Library, and the institution was later renamed in his honor. The current building on Haywood Street opened on November 18, 1978, placing the library at the heart of downtown Asheville.

Today Pack Memorial Library houses a large adult services department, a dedicated children's floor, and the acclaimed Buncombe County Special Collections — a rich archive of local history materials, photographs, and genealogical records. The library also provides access to NCLive, Libby for digital lending, and Kanopy for streaming cinema, ensuring residents have a complete library experience both on-site and at home.