Branch History
The original library on Old Courthouse Way didn't really have a name back then. It was simply known as the Denbigh branch of the Newport News Public Library System. That all changed when one of Newport News’ most famous residents, Virgil I. Grissom, took flight on July 21, 1961. On that Friday afternoon, Grissom became the second American astronaut to rocket into space.
Grissom’s flight only lasted fifteen minutes but it captivated residents in Newport News. Days after the flight, city officials wanted to bestow their official appreciation. The most lasting of the resolutions was submitted by Newport News City Councilman J. Fred Christie who proudly proclaimed: “I cannot think of a better way for our city to show its appreciation to Capt. Grissom …than to name the branch at Denbigh the Virgil I. Grissom Library.”
The previously unnamed Denbigh branch, constructed in 1810, finally had a name to remember. It was not long before the library needed a new building. Talk started in the mid-sixties and by the time the mid-seventies rolled around, the problem was getting worse.
The Grissom branch already accounted for nearly 40 percent of the system-wide circulation and library officials expected the number to grow with Denbigh’s increasing population. Newport News officials eventually found a solution. After purchasing a four-acre site in a mostly residential area on Deshazor Drive, the city opened the new library on September 18, 1977.
Adaptive Computer Equipment
Assisted devices to help accommodate individuals with disabilities are available for use at this branch upon request.
- High Contrast Keyboard
- Kensington Trackball
- NVDA Screen Reading Software
- Speech-to-Text Technology
Amenities
Copy, Scan & Fax station, document translation service, public computers with printing, free public WiFi, PS4 console for Teens, mobile device charging station, self check-in and check-out, drive-up item return, youth iPad kiosks, computer lab, and AWE early literacy stations, Driving University and Safe 2 Drive testing site, and more!
Free Notary Service
- Limit of 3 notarized documents per visit
- Please call to schedule an appointment