Sheppard Memorial Library

The Sheppard Memorial Library, located in Greenville, North Carolina, is a public library that has been serving the community for over a century. Established in 1907, the library has a rich history of providing access to knowledge, education, and cultural enrichment to the residents of Pitt County. The library is named after Benjamin Sheppard, a local philanthropist who donated the initial funds to build the library.

History and Development

The Sheppard Memorial Library has undergone significant transformations since its inception. The first library building was constructed on Evans Street in downtown Greenville and was officially opened on January 15, 1908. The library’s initial collection consisted of approximately 1,500 books, which were largely donated by local residents. Over the years, the library has expanded its collection to include a wide range of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and digital resources.

Facilities and Services

The Sheppard Memorial Library currently operates out of a modern facility located at 530 Evans Street in Greenville. The library offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning services, and meeting rooms. The library also provides programs and events for children and adults, such as storytime, book clubs, author readings, and workshops on topics like technology and job search skills.

Community Outreach and Partnerships

The Sheppard Memorial Library is actively engaged in community outreach and partnerships to promote literacy, education, and cultural enrichment. The library partners with local schools, community organizations, and businesses to provide programs and services that support the community’s needs. For example, the library offers a summer reading program for children, which aims to prevent summer learning loss and promote a love of reading.

Digital Resources and Technology

The Sheppard Memorial Library provides access to a range of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases. The library also offers free Wi-Fi and public computers, which are equipped with Microsoft Office software and other productivity tools. Patrons can access the library’s digital resources from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier to access information and complete assignments or projects.

The library's digital collection includes a wide range of materials, such as bestselling e-books, audiobooks, and online magazines. The library also provides access to online databases, such as Ancestry.com and Lynda.com, which offer genealogy research tools and online courses on topics like technology and business skills.