Stanford L. Warren Branch Library to Reopen Fall 2024 Following Interior Renovations
Durham, NC — Durham County Library’s Stanford L. Warren Branch is slated to reopen in fall 2024 following interior renovations, refurnishing, and the fitting of audiovisual equipment. In August 2021, Stanford L. Warren closed to undergo extensive repairs caused by the intrusion of water into the historic building. During the period of the library’s closure, County and Library leadership held visioning sessions with the community at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center and Main Library. Feedback from the community indicated a desire to add technology and other welcoming features to the location.
In response to that community feedback, the Board of County Commissioners generously approved an additional $1.9 million to renovate the interior of the library branch at their October 9th meeting. Work is currently underway to add furniture, informational displays, and technology that will complement Stanford L. Warren’s historic architecture. The building will be both structurally sound and weatherproof in addition to being fully renovated inside when it opens in late fall 2024.
“It was great to see the Board of County Commissioners show their support for the library and the community it serves,” said Larry Daniels, Stanford L. Warren’s location manager. “Our branch is going to be the best it’s ever been when it opens next year.”
About Stanford L. Warren Branch Library
The Durham Colored Library opened as only the second Black library in North Carolina in 1916 under the guidance of Dr. Aaron Moore and John Merrick. For Durham’s African American community, the library was a safe haven to gather, read, learn, meet one another, and discuss ideas. Dr. Stanford L. Warren, president of the Durham Colored Library Board of Trustees, donated money in 1939 to buy the land at the corner of Umstead and Fayetteville streets. The library was named in his honor, and the building became the home of the historic Durham Colored Library on January 17, 1940. The most recent round of renovations safeguards this history for the generations to come.
About Durham County Library
Durham County Library encourages discovery, connects the community, and leads in literacy. As a department of Durham County Government, the library furthers Goal 1 of the county’s Strategic Plan by enhancing cultural, educational, and creative opportunities. For more information about the library, visit DurhamCountyLibrary.org.