We ask that the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System Board of Trustees take actions to protect the Central Library and Library System Headquarters Building, located at One Margaret Mitchell Square, from demolition and damaging renovation, whether the Library System maintains ownership or sells the building. We also ask that the building is renamed to honor its architect, the internationally renowned Marcel Breuer.
Why is this important?
Not only is the Central Library Marcel Breuer's final building, but it's considered one of his finest by architects and scholars. Opened in 1980, the Central Library is one of the best examples of late Modernist Architecture. It is the result of an era in which Atlanta emerged as an international center for culture and business. Breuer's Central Library, along with John Portman's Peachtree Plaza Hotel and Richard Meir's High Museum, among other projects, were built not only to serve the people of Atlanta, but to be an expression of the city's unique energy, vitality and sophistication, a role the library continues to play to this day. Preserving the Central Library will ensure that future Atlantans and visitors can experience an important piece of art in the museum of architecture that is our city. Renaming the building for its architect would emphasize Atlanta's reputation as an international center for business, culture and architecture by honoring one of the world's great architects.
