Libraries
There are numerous libraries near the Carlyle District.
James M. Duncan (1897-1967), born in Alexandria. He was long term serving Alexandria City Councilman and member of the Library Board. After his death in 1967 it was proposed that the Del Ray branch be named in Duncan's honor. The James M. Duncan Library continues to serve the Del Ray community of Alexandria.
Newly renovations have expanded the library to 5,000 square feet, naturally adult reading area, and new children's reading section.
The James M. Duncan Library was the first building in Alexandria with a "green", or ecologically friendly, roof. It acts as an insulator by reducing the indoor temperature during the summer season. Also by using vegetation and soil it reduces rain water to sewer run off and naturally filters the water.
Every summer James M. Duncan branch offers children fun, exciting, and educational programs with a variety of functions. The SummerQuest programs is for ages 6-12. SummerQuest Junior is for ages infants to five years old.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm
Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Closed Sundays
James M. Duncan Branch Library
2501 Commonwealth Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
(703) 838-4566
Barret Library
The Barrett Library was built in 1937 and named after Kate Waller Barrett (185?-1925), to honor her memory as a humanitarian, social crusader, and political reformer. Mrs. Barrett was a very accomplished woman who received an her M.D. from the Women's Medical College of Georgia in 1892. Dr. Barrett opened a home for unwed mothers in 1893 with the financial aid of Charles Crittenton. By 1909 there were over 90 homes and national headquarters in Washington D.C. DR. Barrett also was involved in veterans' relief, women's suffrage, and the restoration of the Arlington Mansion.
The library has undergone renovations and expanded its facilities in 1995. The Foundation Center at Barrett Library collaborates with the Alexandria Library to strengthen the nonprofit sector with the appropriate knowledge about U.S. philanthropy and training for its patrons.
The Barrett Branch also offers the SummerQuest children's programs and "Let's Talk Books" a Barrett book discussion group held every second Wednesday of each month at 7pm.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm
Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Sunday 1pm-5pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
717 Queen Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 838-4555
