MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – A Memphis library with a rich history has a new look. The 80-year-old Cornelia Crenshaw Library, which was the first in the Bluff City to allow black visitors, now has a brand new electronic marquee, fresh landscaping, art, new entrance doors, and lighting.
“My mother took two buses to come over, which was called Cosik Library for negros in the 30’s and early 40’s, and then the name changed to Vance Avenue. And, in the 90s, it was changed to Cornelia Crenshaw honoring the legacy and advocacy of Miss Crenshaw,” said Inger Upchurch manager of the Camina Crenshaw Library.
Cornelia Crenshaw was known as a feisty activist who lived in the neighborhood. She is credited with pushing MLKW to accept partial payments from people with outstanding bills to keep their power from being turned off. She passed away in 1994.