Location Details
![John Z.C. Thomas Reading Room](/sites/default/files/2022-03/John_ZC_Thomas_Reading_Room.jpg)
Address
Address:
East Tennessee History Center
601 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Directions:
Google Maps
Phone:
(865) 215-8801
Email:
mcclung@knoxlib.org
Hours:
Sun: 1:00 – 5:00
Mon: 9:00 – 8:30
Tues: 9:00 – 8:30
Wed: 9:00 – 5:30
Thurs: 9:00 – 5:30
Fri: 9:00 – 5:30
Sat: 9:00 – 5:00
East Tennessee History Center: Third Floor
The Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection is the history and genealogy department of Knox County Public Library.
Your search of the McClung Collection begins on the third floor of the East Tennessee History Center, whereupon exiting the elevators you will be greeted by helpful librarians who can orient you to the collection. You may also submit reference inquiries by postal service, email, or phone. Replies will be given by librarians who are well-versed in East Tennessee history and adept at genealogical inquiry.
Parking
City of Knoxville Garages: Validation for one hour of free parking is available at Locust Street Parking Garage, which is approximately two-and-one-half blocks from the East Tennessee History Center (ETHC). City of Knoxville garages also offer free parking when entering after 6:00 p.m. weekdays and all day on weekends. For additional parking information, please reference either Downtown Knoxville’s parking map or Parkopedia.
Short-Term Metered Parking: On-street, short-termed metered parking is available near ETHC’s entrance at Gay Street and Clinch Avenue. The spaces are typically limited to two hours and are actively patrolled by parking enforcement.
Handicap Accessible Parking: Two handicap accessible parking spaces are available on Gay Street, directly in front of ETHC. There is a two-hour time limit.
Bilo Nelson Auditorium
Please contact the East Tennessee Historical Society at (865) 215-8824 for information about reserving the Bilo Nelson Auditorium.