The Wake County Libraries system provides an abundance of programs and events for patrons of the libraries at the Athens Drive Community Library location. These include:
Board Games, Pokemon (teens and school-aged)
Story time (0-5 years)
Fiber crafts (16 years and up)
Book lovers (16 years and up)
Arts and crafts for children (2-5 years)
The full, up-to-date list of events at ADCL, with details about each, may be found here.
The Athens Drive Community Library (ADCL) in Raleigh is a vital institution, deeply intertwined with West Raleigh's history, Athens Drive High School's culture, and the well-being of families in the community. It is part of the outstanding Wake County Libraries system, which provides service to the rapidly-growing population of the county.
Within the high school’s culture, the Athens Drive Community Library plays a crucial role in enhancing students’ educational experiences. It serves as an extension of the classroom, offering academic resources, quiet study spaces, and programs that support academic achievement and personal growth.
For families in the community, the library is an essential resource and a supportive hub. It provides a diverse array of programs and services tailored to meet the needs of all family members. Children benefit from early literacy programs, homework assistance, and educational activities that stimulate their creativity and intellectual development. Adults have access to job search resources, continuing education opportunities, and technology training, empowering them to achieve personal and professional goals. Seniors find programs that promote lifelong learning and social engagement, enhancing their quality of life.
Athens Drive Community Library is for everyone!
The Athens Drive Community Library has been a valued part of our community for 46 years. Through threat of closure three times in the last 15 years, limited hours, far fewer events and digital services than other libraries, the Friends of Athens Drive Community Library have fought to keep the library open. The library bond secured funding for a new, freestanding library outside of the high school, but officials are considering moving it out of our community. The Friends of the ADCL strongly support a location for the replacement library that is close to the high school, so it will continue to serve our community and surrounding areas. We need more voices to remind decision makers how much the library means to our neighborhoods. Follow us to stay updated on events and to learn how to make comments at public meetings. We need your help.
What are the Friends of the ADCL asking of officials making the decision on the new library location? First and foremost, we want transparency and public input into site selection. We are also asking that the Wake County School Board, City of Raleigh and the Wake County commissioners collaborate to find the best location for our community, taking into account accessibility to public transportation and walkability.
An excellent article about the bond, and the campaign to keep the library replacement in our neighborhood, appeared in the News and Observer on February 4, 2025, and may be read here.
An interview with Yevonne Brannon, chair of the Friends of Athens Drive Community Library, that aired on ABC-11 on February 5 may be viewed here.