The Most Iconic Libraries in Louisiana

The Louisiana Public Library System embodies the adage “there is something for everyone”. Bibliophiles, students, and tourists will find over 333 libraries and 28 bookmobiles across the state. Traditional and modern libraries are provided, and all provide amenities such as story time hours and backpacks for exploring Louisiana’s various state parks. The State Library of Louisiana is the controlling agency, however the public system is not uniform. The group of libraries operates autonomously, with each having its own leadership and providing unique services.

A few libraries in the Pelican State have achieved iconic status. Continue reading to learn when to find the state’s most memorable libraries and what to anticipate when you visit.

Howard-Tilton Memorial Library

The Howard-Tilton Memorial Library is Tulane University’s official library. It is located on the uptown campus of New Orleans and is one of the top 120 research libraries in the United States. The library was established in 1938, when three smaller libraries united. The F.W. Tilton Memorial Library had the most substantial collection of the three. The Howard Memorial Library housed an extensive collection of manuscripts.

Today, the united library houses the Southeastern Architectural Archive, the Louisiana Research Collections, and the William Ranson Hogan Jazz Archive. The library also houses the Latin American Library, which contains rare maps, books, manuscripts, and other materials. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina in 2005 caused significant damage to the library. More than eight feet of water inundated the library, while four feet of water destroyed Jones Hall’s basement. Millions of microform pieces, 700,000+ print volumes, and 700,000+ archival and manuscript folders were combined.

Fortunately, many materials were recovered and refurbished, and the library reopened in 2006. In 2025, the library will be open to the public while also serving Tulane University’s staff, faculty, and students. Students can take books home, and the general public can view rare collections, video recordings, newspapers, and journals. There’s also a tiny coffee shop in the foyer.

After visiting the library, you can explore the shops in Magazine Street, take in the sights of Audubon Park, visit the garden center, or take a streetcar to the French Quarter.

State Library of Louisiana

The State Library of Louisiana is located in Baton Rouge. According to data from 2023, over 10 million people have visited public libraries in this system and borrowed approximately 40 million items. The modern State Library is not the original structure. When the Louisiana State Library was established in 1838, it was located in New Orleans, the state capital. The library was likewise relocated when the capital was transferred to Baton Rouge in 1849. When the Civil War broke out, the library temporarily relocated to New Orleans for safety. It lasted in New Orleans until 1904, then closed in 1911.

The library reopened in 1925 and offered book lending by mail. Until 1932, it was located in the Old State Capitol. The new building that still houses the library was opened in 1958.

The state library provides a variety of resources, including books, newspapers, government publications, audiobooks, online databases, and microforms. It also provides materials that are accessible to the blind and disabled. Some of the exceptional items include Louisiana Legislature statutes dating back to 1810. The library also has historical state maps, ship passenger lists, and state-related federal government documents. The Louisiana State Museum, located a short walk from the State Library, features permanent and rotating exhibitions that provide detailed information about the state’s history. The Old State Capitol is also nearby and a must-see for anybody interested in Gothic Revival architecture.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library

The Milton H. Latter Memorial Library is a New Orleans Public Library System branch. It was formerly an opulent private residence that changed hands multiple times before being donated to the city in 1948. The neo-Romanesque-style house is conveniently placed at the Dufossat streetcar station, making it ideal for students walking from university. The library is also located on magnificent grounds, which provide a peaceful environment for reading and studying. The reading rooms are magnificent, with painted ceilings and wide windows. This library combines a traditional ambiance with technology, including multiple power outlets and payment choices during book sales.

The library is dedicated to preserving local legacy and culture, hence it has a large collection of books and resources on New Orleans’ past. It even has quiet writing areas for people who need to concentrate while writing papers or articles. After a few hours in the library, you can take a walk through Audubon Park or ride the historic St. Charles streetcar. You may even see a great film in the ancient Prytania Theatre.

Jennings Carnegie Public Library

The Jennings Carnegie Public Library is Louisiana’s oldest established library. The original library in Jennings burned destroyed in 1901. In 1908, a new construction replaced it. The library’s V-shaped design and Corinthian columns make it readily identifiable. In 1952, the south wing was added to make extra room while remaining true to the original design.

Today, the library houses a wide amount of collections. These contain historical Jennings pictures, newspaper and postcard collections, and a large genealogy collection. The library’s services are user-friendly, and there is plenty of quiet room for reading or researching. Every Wednesday, the library offers a fun story hour for families with little children. Additionally, older children who complete 100 books receive a special award. If you go to the Jennings Library, you should also check out the Zigler Museum and The Gator Chateau. Marcus Cain Park also offers a pleasant outdoor experience.

River Center Branch Library

Downtown Baton Rouge is home to the River Center Branch Library, a lovely branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library system. The original River Center branch opened in 1980 but was demolished in 2016 to make way for a new structure. The structure, which spans four stories and 48,490 square feet, opened in 2020 on the same site. In 2025, guests will be able to explore all four stories. The library has a separate Children’s Services area and a Teen Room. There is also an Electronic Arts Teen Technology Lab, a digital media studio, workrooms, conference rooms, and free internet.

Visitors can admire the view from the rooftop terrace before touring the Foundation Center Grants Collection. This collection provides grant applicants with magazines, online tools, and directories. Nearby attractions include Frank Hayden’s two bronze statues in Bernardo de Galvez Plaza and Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović’s four works in the River Center Plaza area. The Louisiana State Capitol, an architectural icon with panoramic views of Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River, is just a short walk from the library.

In Summary

Louisiana’s historic libraries are more than just book collections. They help communities connect to their local history, information, art, and culture. As a student, researcher, author, or reader, you will find a wide range of materials and cutting-edge technologies in these libraries. While getting the resources you need, you’ll also discover more about Louisiana and its people.