by Tricia Dewey
Where in Memphis can you find classes with titles like Tween Cooking Challenge, Colorcopia with the Dixon, Ramen and Reels: Cells at Work, Clean Mixology, Acting & Writing Workshop for Kids, Collage Your Joy, or Story Structure and Soul — in addition to access to books, e-books, music, and more? If you guessed the library (and yes, “books” was a clue), you’re right.
Since 1893, the Memphis Public Library system (MPL) has been a place for borrowing, learning, and connection. Over time, MPL has evolved to offer far more than reading materials: it is now a vital public space for the mental, physical, and social wellness of the city. MPL is the only library system in the U.S. to have won the National Medal for Museum and Library Service twice (earning medals in 2007 and 2021).
Today, MPL operates 18 branches, anchored by the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library at 3030 Poplar Avenue, and also includes numerous neighborhood branches across Memphis and Shelby County. The Memphis Library Foundation (MLF) partners closely to fund growth, innovation, and programming across the system.
MPL branches often serve as public refuges in neighborhoods with few indoor public spaces. They offer heat relief, workspace, after-school environments, and broadband access for those who might not have those resources elsewhere. MLF’s Executive Director Christine Weinrich notes that “you feel like you belong” when walking into a library — a sense of welcome that is essential to community health.
MPL’s wellness mission extends to programs that counter the “epidemic of loneliness.” Weinrich observes that library programs build belonging, networks, and friendships. Libraries also host LGBTQ+ programming, recognizing the needs of marginalized populations and supporting those who face housing instability or discrimination.
MPL’s public program calendar covers 40 categories, hosting roughly 3,400 events systemwide. Events include Mural Making, Really Creative Inspiration Salon, Music Lab (at Frayser), Podcast Studio (in Central), Healthy Cooking in Raleigh’s demo kitchen, Genealogy Studio (Orange Mound), Explore Memphis, and more. MPL also offers extensive Health & Wellness offerings — from aerobics, Zumba, yoga, and pickleball to nutrition classes, blood drives, gardening, and cooking.
One signature service is LINC /2-1-1 (Library Information & Referral Center). Dialing 2-1-1 connects callers to social services: food, housing, legal help, utilities, mental health, and more. In 2024, MPL expanded LINC to include licensed social workers and outreach specialists at key library locations (Central, Whitehaven, East Shelby, Hollywood, Raleigh) to meet higher demand. The database also maintains referrals and background info across social service providers.
Over recent years, MPL has shown strong community impact. Circulation remains robust, and participation in library programs continues to grow.
In Memphis today, libraries do far more than house books. They foster connection, support basic needs, and nurture intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being — all in service to the city’s health and future.
