Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library (Alexandria, Va.)

The Kate Waller Barrett Library opened its doors on Queen Street in 1937; this was the first location of the Alexandria Library. It was named after Dr. Kate Waller Barrett – local humanitarian, social crusader, and political reformer. The Society of Friends granted a 99-year lease for use of its old Quaker Burial Ground on Queen Street as the site for the new public library building. This library has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, in 1954, 1964, and 1993. When the Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library was built, the Barrett Library shifted from being the main library to its current role as a branch library which serves residents of Old Town Alexandria and surrounding neighborhoods.

In 1931 the City Manager set aside $1,000 for the establishment of a free public library. On January 28, 1937 President of the Board Mary Powell Scott and Secretary Mary B. Smoot authorized to sign contract agreement between Dr. and Mrs. Robert Barrett, The Society of Friends, the Alexandria Library Association, and the City Council of the City of Alexandria for a library building.

The first Alexandria Free Public Library opens at 717 Queen Street. Dr. Robert S. Barrett Library donates funds to erect the library in memory of his mother, Dr. Kate Waller Barrett, a humanitarian, social crusader, and political reformer. The Society of Friends grants a 99-year lease for use of its old Quaker Burial Ground on Queen Street as the site for the new building. The Library Company signs an agreement with the Alexandria City Council, turning over its collections to the city. In turn, the city agrees to include operating expenses for the public library in its budget. First year’s budget is $5,000. A Library Board is established, including three members of the Association (“The Company”), two members appointed by the Mayor, and two members of the City Council Beatrice Workman appointed transitional librarian.

On August 21, 1939, the earliest known civil rights sit-in occurred at the Barrett Library. With leadership from native Alexandrian, attorney Samuel W. Tucker, five young African American men demonstrated an act of civil disobedience at the Barrett Branch after being denied library cards.