For more than a century, libraries have been an important part of life in Pinehurst. What began as a small lending library has grown into one of the Village's most treasured institutions, serving generations of residents while preserving the unique history of Pinehurst through the Tufts Archives.

Timeline

Early 1900s – A Village Lending Library Begins

From the earliest days of the Village of Pinehurst, residents and visitors enjoyed access to a lending library made possible through the generosity of the Tufts family. For nearly seventy years, the library operated in various locations throughout the Village, with its collection expanding and contracting over time.

1963–1964 – A New Vision

By the early 1960s, the library had been reduced to only a few shelves housed in the historic Casino building. Recognizing the importance of preserving library services for the community, local advocate Eric Nelson inspired Sarah Given Larson to create a permanent public library in memory of her parents, John L. and Irene Heinz Given.

1964 – Given Memorial Library Opens

Through Sarah Given Larson's generous endowment and Richard S. Tufts' gift of land overlooking the Village Green, Given Memorial Library became a reality. The new library provided Pinehurst with a permanent home for books, learning, and community gathering.

1974 – The Tufts Archives is Established

A decade later, Richard S. Tufts once again invested in Pinehurst's future by helping establish the Tufts Archives. Supported by an endowment from the Tufts Family Foundation and an additional gift of land, the Archives and Pinehurst History Museum were added to the library campus to preserve the Village's rich history for future generations.

Today – Serving the Community

Over the decades, Given Memorial Library has become a beloved gathering place where people of all ages discover new books, attend programs, conduct research, and connect with one another. The Tufts Archives has earned an international reputation for its exceptional collection documenting the history of Pinehurst, the Sandhills, and the game of golf.

2022 – A New Chapter

In April 2022, ownership and management of Given Memorial Library and the Tufts Archives transferred to the Village of Pinehurst. Today, the Village proudly continues the legacy established by the Given and Tufts families, ensuring these treasured institutions remain vibrant community resources for generations to come.

Our Story Continues

As Pinehurst grows, so does Given Memorial Library. The Village is investing in a new, modern library that will expand opportunities for learning, technology, children's programming, and community gathering while preserving the traditions that have made the library a cornerstone of Pinehurst for more than 100 years. The Tufts Archives will also receive a dedicated, state-of-the-art facility designed to preserve the Village's irreplaceable historical collections for future generations.