Richard A. Tucker Memorial Branch

Richard A. Tucker Branch ImageThe Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library opened in September 2021. It is the newest library location for the Norfolk Public Library system and is a 2023 Excellence in Development Design Award Recipient. The branch houses a significant book collection of more than 30,000 popular and classic fiction and nonfiction titles, including a special collection of African American literature, and other materials for all ages.  Be sure to visit our Nature Explorium, a 5,000 square foot outdoor classroom with active learning stations that offer a way to connect learning, literacy, and an appreciation of nature as a regular part of a library visit for children and families


Hours

Monday - Thursday                        10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday                                                      10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday                                                10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday                                                    Closed

Links

Amenities

Available for use at branch. 
  • Childrens Library with Playscape and KidZone
  • Collaboration Room
  • Computer Lab
  • Drinking fountain with bottle filling station
  • Meeting Room
  • Outside book and media/DVD return
  • Reading Patio
  • Study Rooms

Equipment Library

Available for check-out with your Norfolk Library card. Learn More!
  • Chargers
  • Community Sketchbooks (Youth and Adult)
  • Wi-Fi Hotspots

Richard A. Tucker Branch History

The branch is named after Richard Allen Tucker, the former rector of the Cumberland Street School (renamed the S.C. Armstrong School), the first school built by Norfolk Public Schools for African American students. The Richard A. Tucker School operated from 1943-2011 on the land where the Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library sits.

Richard A. Tucker

Richard A Tucker imageRichard Allen Tucker was born in Norfolk City, Virginia, in February 1850. He attended Howard University for training in Theology. In 1876, Norfolk Public Schools (NPS) hired Tucker as a schoolteacher, and in 1888, he became rector (principal) of the Cumberland Street School (renamed the S.C. Armstrong School), the first African American school built by NPS. The school was later renamed the Tucker School. He married Josephine Spooner in 1874, and their union produced twelve children.