Library Excursion 2: Visit three libraries along the St. Charles Streetcar Line
Children’s Resource Center Library, 913 Napoleon Avenue
Open since 1908, the Children’s Resource Center Library is our second operating Carnegie library. This Library caters to children and teens but also has adult collections and offers adult programming. This location was a part of the ALA’s volunteer event, “Librarians Build Communities,” at ALA’s 2006 Annual Conference in New Orleans.
Getting There: Take the St. Charles Streetcar to the Napoleon Avenue stop. Head down Napoleon Avenue toward the river about 6.5 blocks to arrive at the Library, between Camp and Magazine Streets.
Lagniappe: On the walk, see the historic Sophie B. Wright School built in 1912, the first public girls high school, and St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, completed in 1887. Interested in doing a little shopping or eating? Magazine Street is just a half block away.
Milton H. Latter Memorial Library, 5120 St. Charles Avenue
Milton H. Latter Memorial Library once served as a stately mansion for a noted turn-of-the century family, an elegant retreat for a silent screen star, and a festive center for weeklong parties. The original residence was built in 1907; and, in addition to the grounds, it occupies a city square. The building was dedicated as a library in 1948 by the Latter family in memory of their son. The Library features murals on the walls, frescoed ceilings, and a mahogany staircase.
Getting There: Take the St. Charles Streetcar to the stop at Dufossat. Latter Library will be across the street.
Lagniappe: Visit Creole Creamery just a few blocks away, where they serve nectar cream sodas, a traditional New Orleans treat. In the mood for something more savory? Eat at St. James Cheese Co., which is a great lunch spot, or drop by Gracious Bakeryfor a caffeine pick-me-up. Or take a rest from all the fun by relaxing on Latter’s lawn and watching the streetcars roll by.
Meet Our Friends: While at Latter, visit the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, located in the carriage house. The Friends host a book sale Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am – 2pm at this location. All proceeds directly benefit the Library. Bring an extra bag so as to not miss out on all the amazing finds.
Nix Library, 1401 S. Carrollton Avenue
Nix Library, which opened in 1930, was built in response to the requests of Carrollton residents. This location remains a small neighborhood Library that is important to its community. Nix was the sixth Library in the system to open, and the building was made possible due to a donation from the Nix family.
Getting There: Eventually, the St. Charles Streetcar takes a turn onto Carrollton Avenue. Get off at the Willow Street stop. Nix Library is right there.
Lagniappe: Visit Camellia Grill. This diner opened in 1946 and retains its original atmosphere. Sit at the counter and enjoy favorites such as a cheeseburger, fries, chocolate freeze, and hot apple pie with ice cream. The former Canal Bank and Trust building now houses Rue de la Course, a coffee shop offering indoor and outdoor seating.
