Literary Landmark: Eudora Welty Library

Jackson, Miss.

Dedicated: 2009
Partners: Friends of Mississippi Libraries, Jackson Friends of the Library, Mississippi Library Commission


eudora welty library Eudora Welty, a native and lifelong resident of Jackson, Miss., earned the Pulitzer Prize, the American Book Award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and many other honors. Among her works are The Robber Bridegroom, Delta Wedding, Losing Battles, The Ponder Heart, The Optimist’s Daughter, and One Writer’s Beginnings.

On June 22, 2009, as part of the Eudora Welty Centennial Celebration, the Eudora Welty Library of the Jackson/Hinds Library System was named a Literary Landmark.  Recognizing Eudora Welty’s role in Mississippi’s literary heritage, her support for public libraries, and her importance to Mississippians, the Friends of Mississippi Libraries, the Jackson Friends of the Library, and the Mississippi Library Commission joined together to support this nomination.

Amy Lou Douglas Flournoy, President of the Friends of Mississippi Libraries, said “Eudora Welty is uniquely Jackson, but she is also of the world. When one mentions Jackson, people think of ‘Miss Eudora.’  She loved books, enjoyed reading, supported libraries, and left us a rich legacy of her writings and spirit that will last the times.”

Those attending the dedication included (from left) Mary Alice White, niece of Eudora Welty; Sharman Smith, executive director, Mississippi Library Commission; Dr. Leslie McLemore, acting mayor, city of Jackson; Amy Douglas Flournoy, president, Friends of Mississippi Libraries; Margaret Barrett-Simon, city councilwoman, Jackson; Dr. George Barnes, chairman, Jackson/Hinds Library System Board of Trustees; Carolyn McCallum, executive director, Jackson/Hinds Library System; and Rosalyn Sylvester, vice-chairman, Jackson/Hinds Library System Board of Trustees.