History of Provo | The Provo Library at Academy Square

The Provo Library stands proudly on University Avenue where the history of Brigham Young University first began. This building was also the birthplace of one of the the first beginning collections of the Provo library. This historic building has been around for over 100 years and has been a beautiful piece of architecture accessible to the residents of Provo. 

In 1875, Brigham Young, the second president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints as well as a previous Utah governor, wanted to create a school for the members of his church where students could come and gain an education, strengthen their character and to continue their studies of the gospel. The Brigham Young Academy, founded in 1876, first began teaching elementary and high school age students. They held their classes at a building called the Lewis Building, which unfortunately burned down in 1884. Don Carlos Young, the son of Brigham, was put in charge of the design and architect of the new building to be built. It took over 8 years to build and it was formally dedicated on January 4, 1982. 

Brigham Young Academy, 1897 (SOURCE)

The academy officially changed their name to Brigham Young University in 1903. Franklin S. Harris was one of the Presidents of the University and added about 5 other colleges to the University. This beautiful building was designed to hold roughly 1,000 students. What is now know as the Ballroom was a place for students to study, hold event gatherings and assemblies and a place to dance! This place was home for a lot of students. Many additions were made to the building over the years. The old bell from the Provo Tabernacle was installed in 1919. The name of the building changed a lot. The building had many different names, but the one that lasted until it's last days was the Education Building. In the 1970's, it was closed down and sold to private owners. 

It stood vacant for over 20 years and began deteriorating. People wanted to tear it down while others wanted to renovate and preserve it. The building was saved from demolition when a $16.8 million bond was passed by the community of Provo and there the renovation began! In 2001, people celebrated the re dedication of the building as well as a new library wing added! People come every day to the library for a place for learning, study, research and games.

The Provo Library at Academy Square
550 North University Ave. Provo, UT 84601
801-852-9650
www.provolibrary.com

SOURCES
Article #1 - Becoming A University by Gordon Daines (May 7, 2009)
Article #2 - Self Guided Tour of The Provo City Library at Academy Square
Article #3 - Article on provolibrary.com
Article #4 - Article on provolibrary.com

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