Explore Athens history at the public library: manuscripts, photos and relics 1950’s to 1990’s

From the Athens Regional Library System:

ATHENS, Ga. — Step back in time and experience Athens History at the Athens-Clarke County Library. Walk through a curated collection of manuscripts, photographs, and relics from the Athens-Clarke County Library Heritage Room’s Archives and Manuscript collections. This exhibit will be on display in the Bogue Gallery on the library’s second floor until April 27.

The exhibition, titled “Back In My Day,” spans five decades from the early 1950s to the 1990s, featuring photographs of famous musicians, signed memorabilia, and information about industry, art, education, and culture in Athens.

Learn how massive redevelopment in the late 1960s not only changed the landscape of the Athens community, but also displaced many longtime residents, reshaped historic neighborhoods, and altered the social and economic fabric of the area. View photos of key historical figures in Athens’ public school integration and the expansion of civil rights alongside periodicals discussing massive economic and infrastructure development.

Relive the 80’s and 90’s with concert bills, Olympics memorabilia, unique textiles, and advertisements for familiar downtown venues. As Athens moved closer to the new millennium, it was marked by shifting demographics, economic challenges, and increased community activism.

These moments and more are presented in the “Back In My Day” exhibition through items housed in the Athens-Clarke County Library Heritage Room Archives and Manuscript collections. Visitors can also share a favorite Athens moment using the #AthensInMyDay, and contribute to an interactive memory panel.

This exhibit is made possible by donations from the community to the Heritage Room and the Friends of the Athens-Clarke County Library. If you have local historical materials that you would be interested in preserving or donating, please contact the Athens-Clarke County Library Heritage Room.

The Athens-Clarke County Library is a part of The Athens Regional Library System, consisting of 11 branch locations, located within 5 counties in Northeast Georgia.

Call the library at 706-613-3650 or visit athenslibrary.org for more information. To discuss donating historical materials, please contact heritageroomref@athenslibrary.org.