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Two years ago, East Tennessee State University began the tradition of chronicling the history of ETSU through artistic holiday ornaments.   

The legacy continues this year with a limited-edition, hand-painted ornament that features the beloved Charles C. Sherrod Library.  

Ever improving to address the changing needs of visitors, the library celebrated the building’s 25th anniversary in 2024. Styled with Roman arches and red brick, the interior features four floors filled with books, digital spaces and people dedicated to learning and research. 

The first library building at ETSU was completed in 1922 and now houses the Reece Museum. The college quickly outgrew the space which led to the construction of a new building in 1931. When Dr. Charles C. Sherrod retired from the university in 1949, the faculty voted unanimously to name the library for him. This building, the current Nicks Hall, was expanded in 1967. The current library building was dedicated as the Charles C. Sherrod Library on April 9, 1999. 

The ornament will be available by Nov. 15 at only these locations for $125: 

– Bowman Jewelers, 401 W. Oakland Ave., (423) 282-8101.
– Monkee’s of Johnson City, 2515 N. Roan St.,  (423) 328-9488.   
Penny Lee Livingston, an Elizabethton-based artist and muralist who has painted glass ornaments for more than three decades, designed and painted the ornament.  

The holidays are a magical time at East Tennessee State University, and the community is invited to join in the festivities. From light displays throughout campus to skating and arts events, discover all the ways ETSU can add joy to the season.