James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library

🏢 Alexandria Library · ALEXANDRIA, Virginia

James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library

The James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library, which opened in December 1969 on Commonwealth Avenue, became the first City of Alexandria government building to feature a green roof after a 2005 renovation.

📞 7037461705🌐 alexlibraryva.org

🕑 Library Hours

Monday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary on holidays.

📍 Location & Contact

Address: 2501 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22301

Phone: 7037461705

Website: alexlibraryva.org

📖 About James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library

<p>The James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library opened in December 1969 at 2501 Commonwealth Avenue, the second new branch completed during library director Ellen Coolidge Burke's tenure. The branch serves the Del Ray and Rosemont neighborhoods and features a small parking lot with nine spaces plus street parking, with Metrorail Yellow and Blue lines and DASH bus service nearby. A 2005 renovation transformed the building into the first City of Alexandria government structure to have a green roof, earning it a distinction in the city's sustainable building history. The branch's Beth Patridge Meeting Room hosts community programs year-round, including Lego Club, STEM Explorers, teen Dungeons &amp; Dragons, yoga, ELL classes, and the annual Fall Fest.</p>

⭐ What makes this branch special

  • Opened December 1969 — second branch built during director Ellen Coolidge Burke's leadership
  • First City of Alexandria government building with a green roof (2005 renovation)
  • Features the Beth Patridge Meeting Room for community events
  • Programs for all ages: Lego Club, STEM Explorers, teen D&amp;D, yoga, ELL, adult book discussions

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📍 More Alexandria Library branches

Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch LibraryHours & info →Kate Waller Barrett Branch LibraryHours & info →Local History / Special CollectionsHours & info →

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Duncan Branch architecturally significant?

After a 2005 renovation, the Duncan Branch became the first City of Alexandria government building to feature a green roof, marking a milestone in the city's sustainable architecture history.

What children's and teen programs does the Duncan Branch offer?

The Duncan Branch offers Lego Club, STEM Explorers, crafts, art cafes, and Dungeons &amp; Dragons sessions for teens, as well as storytime programs for young children. Seasonal events like Fall Fest are held here annually.

Is there parking at the Duncan Branch?

The branch has a small on-site lot with 9 spaces plus street parking on Commonwealth Avenue. It is also accessible via Metrorail Yellow and Blue lines and local DASH and Metrobus routes.

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