The library design was inspired by the surrounding Gullah/Geechee people who were liberated from slavery by the Union Army early in the Civil War in 1861. It was one of the first places in the United States where emancipated slaves voted, bought property, and created churches, schools, and businesses. Northern teachers and missionaries came here during and after the War to help the newly freed slaves with the long process of gaining literacy and education. The nearby Reconstruction Era National Historical Park was established in 2017 by President Barrack Obama to preserve and commemorate local activities that occurred during the Reconstruction era after the Civil War. St. Helena Island continues today to be the center of the unique Gullah/Geechee culture, language, and cuisine.