Our History
Oak Ridge Public Library first opened its doors on May 29, 1944 due to a high demand for books from the sudden relocation of residents during World War II. Our collection began as a simple magazine and redistribution program made from donated materials, and was delivered by Boy Scouts to the dormitories, hospitals, and common areas of town. Located on the corner of Kentucky and Tennessee Avenues, the first library building served a town of 75,000 citizens. On opening day, the small collection housed 1,700 books, but quickly grew. In November of 1970, the library officially opened at its current location on Oak Ridge Turnpike. The Oak Ridge Room was dedicated in 1986 as part of the Library’s celebration of Tennessee’s Homecoming ‘86. Today, the library continues to strive to serve the diverse community in Oak Ridge and expand our offerings to streaming services, mobile printing, digital collections, historical archives, various technology access and devices, and engaging programs for all ages.
Our Values
Our staff shares the mission of creating and maintaining a patron-centered library that is the heart of our community.
We work efficiently and focus on what needs to be accomplished, supporting each other while being respectful, friendly, and protecting the privacy of all who come into the library.
High-Quality
Teamwork
Respect
Patron-Centered
Kindness
Our Team
Jacob B.
William G.
Sarah F.
Bailey L.
Mike S.
Haley S.
Lexie R.
Colleen R.
Yvonne O.
Maddie R.
Steve S.
Chad B.
Michaela M.
Ana V.
Hannah L.
Emily C.
Teresa P.
Julie F.
Michael R.
Shannan G.
Ashley W.
Willie W.
Clerestory Stained Glass
The Lifetime of Reading Stained Glass windows are an exciting feature in the Oak Ridge Public Library. Each of the 18 panels beautifully illustrate the value and pleasures of reading throughout one’s life.
From its conception in 2001, the Stained Glass Window Project took five years to complete. Individuals and corporations purchased the windows, so no public funds were used. The windows were dedicated April 30, 2006.
Stained Glass Project Committee: Don Barbour and Cecil Higgins, both past Presidents of the Friends of the Library; Linda Cloutier, FOL Member at Large; Leah Marcum-Estes, Director of the Community Art Center, and Kathy McNeilly, former Director of the Oak Ridge Public Library. Designed and installed by State of the Art, Inc. Stained Glass Knoxville, Tennessee.
