The Taganrog Library named after Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, founded in 1876, is one of the oldest public libraries in the Don region. It became the first city library of Taganrog, arising from the extensive collection of books from the Commercial Club library, which existed since 1812. It was here that the future great writer Chekhov became fascinated with Russian literature, spending much time reading. Later, already famous, he generously gifted his hometown many literary editions, which are still preserved in the library.

After Chekhov's death, the authorities of Taganrog decided to immortalize his memory by naming the library in his honor. However, the old building could no longer accommodate the entire collection, and a decision was made to construct a new one. The project was undertaken by the famous architect Fyodor Osipovich Shekhtel, who was a friend of Chekhov and refused to take a fee. Shekhtel's work on the project became his last gift to his friend.

On September 11, 1910, a solemn prayer service and the laying of the foundation of the new building took place, and on September 14, 1914, the Chekhov Library and Museum were opened, despite the raging World War I. Difficult times lay ahead: the Civil War, in which Taganrog became a place of resistance for the White Movement. However, the library building, executed in the neoclassical style, survived and has been preserved to this day. Today, the Chekhov Library is not only one of the oldest but also one of the richest in the Rostov region, thanks to its invaluable literary works, including early 19th-century pieces in many languages of the world.