On the north side of Winston-Salem sits Forsyth County’s largest branch in the system. Plus, it is arguably the most unique and historic library branch in our county. After all, how many libraries are in old movie theaters?
This is the library to visit if you are looking for somewhere new to go. It’s filled with history, charm and, of course, a whole lot of books!
From Silver Screen to Story Stacks
The 1960s proved to be a great time for development in the north side of Winston-Salem. The original Reynolda Manor Branch Library opened in 1964, and Reynolda Cinema opened in 1968. Both prospered into the 1990s.
However, down the road in December 1993, Carmike Classic 10 opened and cut into the smaller theater’s client base. Ultimately, this led to Reynolda Cinemas closure in the mid-1990s. In contrast, the Reynolda Manor Branch Library grew steadily and needed a new, larger home. That led to it relocating to the old cinema building in 1998.
Today, the library honors cinematic history with book posters personating movie opening posters outside and inside. The exterior still looks like a fun little cinema and provides an exciting feel as soon as you step up.
Learning for All Ages Under One Roof
As soon as you walk in, you’ll notice the entire left side of the library is dedicated to youth. There are computers, tables for coloring, reading and studying, and rows and rows of books for toddlers to teens (and everything in between).
On the right side, you’ll find fiction, non-fiction and resource books. There are also plenty of DVDs available for rent. You can even grab a table for group study sessions or to spread out and work.
A Community Resource Beyond Books
One great benefit to this community at this library is a huge auditorium that fits almost 200 people. It has a small stage at the front with a large projection screen for those with AV needs. There is even a ramp up to the stage making it handicap accessible.
Additionally, the library offers a smaller, yet still roomy, conference room that has a capacity of 45 people. No matter what your group’s size, this library is a lesser known, great location for meetings, workshops and conferences.
Learn More or Visit the Reynolda Manor Branch Library
Location: 2839 Fairlawn Drive NW, Winston-Salem
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Closed Sunday
Parking: Ample free parking
Website: forsyth.cc/library/reynolda
Instagram: @fcpubliclibrary
