The Main Library of the Public Library of Albuquerque/Bernalillo County celebrated its 50th anniversary on February 22. The event drew hundreds of community members to downtown Albuquerque for a day filled with activities and presentations highlighting the library's history, architecture, and impact.
Joe Sabatini, who managed the Main Library from 1980 to 2000 and later led the Special Collections Library until his retirement in 2008, was among the presenters. His presentation focused on the library's historical journey.
First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller delivered remarks during the celebration, emphasizing the library's role in inspiring learning and creativity. "When children grow up with access to knowledge, creativity and learning, they become engaged citizens who contribute to a brighter future for our community," said Keller. "Fifty years of inspiring a lifelong love of learning is not just an important milestone for our city’s Main Library, it’s something all Albuquerque families can celebrate."
Other notable speakers included U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury and New Mexico Library Association President Julia Kelso. Architects Edie Cherry and Erik Mease also discussed the architectural significance of the library's Brutalist design.
The Main Library has been integral to literacy and community engagement since its opening in 1975. Designed by George Clayton Pearl from Stevens, Mallory, Pearl and Campbell (SMPC), it is recognized as an example of Brutalist architecture. The building spans three stories with a total area of 104,577 square feet.
Located between Fifth and Sixth Streets on Copper Avenue NW, it was created as a modern space adaptable to meet Albuquerque's needs over time. In recognition of its cultural significance, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019.
The origins of Albuquerque's public library system date back to 1901 when it opened with just over two thousand volumes at Perkins Hall. Today, it comprises 19 branches across Bernalillo County.
Continuing its mission as Albuquerque’s literary hub, the Main Library remains committed to providing free access to knowledge while fostering lifelong learning within the community.
For further details about events or services offered by ABQ/BernCo libraries visit abqlibrary.org.
