The road to democracy is a long and arduous one, closely intertwined with the evolution of transportation. From the earliest trails to our modern interstate highways, the story of transportation is also a story of access, opportunity, and participation. Told through the lens we know best—local government—this exhibit explores the decisions, developments, and challenges that shaped how Nashville moves and the vital role transportation plays in our everyday lives. The exhibit starts in the hallway leading to the Archives and ends in our reading room.

Metro Archives staff aren’t just lovers of history—they’re model train enthusiasts, too! All are welcome to stop by for a model train show featuring trains belonging to staff, family members, and other special contributors. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch our staff performing conservation work on their own train sets! Metro Archives is located on the 3rd floor of the Main Library, next to the Public Computer area.