Copper Queen Library, Huachuca Mountains Travel Guide

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Discover Arizona's oldest continuously operating public library, a treasure trove of history and culture in the heart of Bisbee's historic district.

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Copper Queen Library

The Copper Queen Library, established in 1882, stands as Arizona's oldest continuously operating public library. Housed in a Renaissance Revival building since 1907, it's a cultural hub and architectural landmark in Bisbee.

A brief summary to Copper Queen Library

6 Main St, Bisbee, Arizona, 85603, US
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Monday 12 pm-7 pm
Tuesday 12 pm-7 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-2 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Copper Queen Library.

Check the library's website for information on upcoming events, author readings, and workshops.
Explore the library's local history archives to delve deeper into Bisbee's fascinating past.
Take a moment to admire the Renaissance Revival architecture of the library building, a landmark in Bisbee.
Visit the Rare Books Room to see Reverend Pritchard's historic collection of books.

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Getting There

Walking

The Copper Queen Library is located at 6 Main St in Bisbee, easily accessible on foot from most locations in the downtown area. From the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, walk south on Main Street for approximately 2 blocks. The library will be on your right, across from Post Office Plaza. Given Bisbee's hilly terrain, be prepared for some uphill walking. Parking can be a challenge. Street parking is free. Alternatively, several parking lots are available, including the Mile High Parking Lot on Naco Road. From any of these lots, follow the directions towards Main Street and the library.
Public Transport

Bisbee has a public bus service called the Bisbee Bus. Check the Bisbee Bus schedule for routes and stops. The bus fare is $1 per ride. Several bus stops are located within walking distance of the Copper Queen Library on Main Street. From the nearest bus stop, follow Main Street to 6 Main St.

Discover more about Copper Queen Library

The Copper Queen Library is more than just a repository of books; it's a living testament to Bisbee's vibrant history and unwavering community spirit. Founded in 1882 by the Copper Queen Mining Company, the library's origins are rooted in a desire to cultivate a more civilized atmosphere in the burgeoning mining town. Legend has it that the library was established to curb violence after a lynching occurred.Initially located in the Copper Queen Mercantile Store with a modest collection of 400 volumes, the library quickly outgrew its humble beginnings. It moved to its own two-story wood-frame building in 1885, sharing space with the town's post office. A devastating fire in 1888 destroyed the library, but the community rallied to rebuild it in brick in 1892.In 1907, the library found its permanent home in the Renaissance Revival-style building it occupies today. Designed by local architect Frederick C. Hurst, the building also housed a U.S. Post Office, which still operates on the ground floor. The library itself is located on the third floor. The building's architecture, with its arcades and piers, stands as one of Bisbee's most distinctive landmarks.Over the years, the Copper Queen Library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. It has a diverse collection of books, periodicals, and local history archives. The library hosts community events and programs, serving as a hub for locals and visitors alike. In 2019, the Library Journal named it the Best Small Library in America. The library was also awarded the National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2024.