About Cleveland-Bradley County Public Library

The Cleveland-Bradley County Public Library has been a cornerstone of the community since 1923, when the Johnston family gifted the Craigmiles House, furnishings, and over 4,000 books to the city of Cleveland as a memorial to their mother, Sarah Tucker Johnston. At its founding, the library was one of only seven in the country to lend books free of charge to both city and county residents. The library began its centennial celebration in 2023 -- marking 100 years of legacy. Today the library occupies one of the most architecturally unique facilities in Tennessee, comprising three historic Victorian-era houses connected on Church Street NE.

The cornerstone of the complex is the Hardwick-Jarnigan House, completed in 1883, which continues to house the History Branch and Archives -- a rich collection focused on Bradley County genealogy, vital records, family histories, and court records dating to the county's earliest years. The main library offers books, digital resources, computer access, programming for all ages, and a welcoming community space. The History Branch at 833 Ocoee Street NE specializes in local history research (call 423-479-8367 for hours).