A Pioneer Who Changed the Face of Pittsburgh’s Libraries
Vivian Donaldson Hewitt was more than a librarian. She was a force of change in Pittsburgh’s Black community. As the city’s first Black librarian, she made libraries more welcoming and inclusive for generations to come.
She began her work at the Carnegie Library’s Wylie Avenue and later the Homewood branch. Both were located in areas with large Black populations. Her presence meant children and adults could see someone who looked like them behind the desk.
“Having someone who was embedded in the community… was really important for folks to be able to see themselves,” said Dr. Deborah Rogers from the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
Giving August Wilson His First Library Card
Vivian didn’t just open library doors—she opened lives. One of her most memorable stories was about the legendary playwright August Wilson. She gave him his first library card as a young boy. They remained friends long after that moment.
Her ability to connect with others made her a pillar in the community. She didn’t just hand out books; she built lifelong relationships.
“She remembers giving August Wilson his first library card… and they became good friends,” said her granddaughter Marivien Hewitt Laschon.
A Lifelong Love for Books and Learning
Vivian’s love for books started early. She got her first library card as soon as she could write her name. That small moment sparked a passion that would shape her entire life.
Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, she went on to graduate from Geneva College in 1943. She later studied library science at the Carnegie Library School, now Carnegie Mellon University.
“Her love of reading, her love of the world… she was always willing to teach,” Laschon said.
Standing Tall in a Male-Dominated Field
During World War II, library work began opening up to women. Vivian was the only Black student in her library school class. She studied alongside two Jewish women and one Anglo woman. The small group supported one another through challenges.
They formed a bond that helped them push through discrimination and become leaders in their field. Vivian stood tall not just as a woman, but as a Black woman in a space where few others looked like her.
“They looked out for each other and practiced solidarity,” Dr. Rogers explained.
Honored by Royalty and Respected by All
Vivian Hewitt’s impact reached far beyond Pittsburgh. She was one of the few women in the region honored by the late Queen Elizabeth. Her work and passion for education earned her international respect.
Yet, she always remained close to her roots. She lived in Homewood while working at the Homewood branch library. Her life’s work focused on building bridges through books, stories, and love for learning.
Her legacy lives on through the many people she inspired. She proved that one librarian could change a whole community—and the future.
