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{{Short description|Library system in Detroit, Michigan (USA)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2023}}
{{Infobox library
{{Infobox library
| library_name = Detroit Public Library
| library_name = Detroit Public Library
Line 4: Line 6:
| library_logo = [[File:Detroit Public Library logo.png|Detroit Public Library logo]]
| library_logo = [[File:Detroit Public Library logo.png|Detroit Public Library logo]]
| location = 5201 Woodward Avenue<br />[[Detroit]], [[Michigan]]
| location = 5201 Woodward Avenue<br />[[Detroit]], [[Michigan]]
| established = 1865
| established = {{start date and age|1865}}
| num_branches = 21
| num_branches = 21
| collection_size = 7,572,562
| collection_size = 7,572,562
Line 26: Line 28:
| designated_other1 = Michigan State Historic Site
| designated_other1 = Michigan State Historic Site
| designated_other1_link = Michigan State Historic Preservation Office
| designated_other1_link = Michigan State Historic Preservation Office
| designated_other1_date = January 24, 1964<ref name="state">{{cite web| title = Main Detroit Public Library| publisher = Michigan State Housing Development Authority| url = http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/hso/sites/15344.htm| accessdate = September 1, 2010| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120524214640/http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/hso/sites/15344.htm| archive-date = May 24, 2012| url-status = dead}}</ref>
| designated_other1_date = January 24, 1964<ref name="state">{{cite web| title = Main Detroit Public Library| publisher = Michigan State Housing Development Authority| url = http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/hso/sites/15344.htm| access-date = September 1, 2010| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120524214640/http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/hso/sites/15344.htm| archive-date = May 24, 2012| url-status = dead}}</ref>
| designated_other1_num_position = bottom
| designated_other1_num_position = bottom
}}
}}
}}
}}


The '''Detroit Public Library''' is the second largest [[library system]] in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Michigan]] by volumes held (after the [[University of Michigan Library]]) and is the 21st largest library system (and the fourth-largest public library system) in the [[United States]].<ref name="ALA">{{cite web |url=http://www.ala.org/ala/professionalresources/libfactsheets/alalibraryfactsheet22.cfm |title=The Nation's Largest Libraries by Volumes Held |publisher=American Library Association}}</ref> It is composed of the Main Library on [[Woodward Avenue]], which houses the library's administration offices, and 23 branch locations across the city. The Main Library is part of Detroit's [[Cultural Center Historic District]] listed in the [[National Register of Historic Places]] adjacent to [[Wayne State University]] campus and across from the [[Detroit Institute of Arts]].
The '''Detroit Public Library''' is the second largest [[library system]] in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Michigan]] by volumes held (after the [[University of Michigan Library]]) and the [[List of largest libraries in the United States|12th-largest public library system]] in the [[United States]].<ref name="ALA">{{cite web |url=http://www.ala.org/ala/professionalresources/libfactsheets/alalibraryfactsheet22.cfm |title=The Nation's Largest Libraries by Volumes Held |publisher=American Library Association}}</ref> It is composed of the Main Library on [[Woodward Avenue]], which houses the library's administration offices, and 23 branch locations across the city. The Main Library is part of Detroit's [[Cultural Center Historic District]] listed in the [[National Register of Historic Places]] adjacent to [[Wayne State University]] campus and across from the [[Detroit Institute of Arts]].


Designed by [[Cass Gilbert]], the Detroit Public Library was constructed with Vermont marble and serpentine Italian marble trim in an [[Renaissance Revival architecture|Italian Renaissance]] style. His son, Cass Gilbert, Jr. was a partner with Francis J. Keally in the design of the library's additional wings added in 1963. Among his other buildings, Cass Gilbert designed the [[United States Supreme Court Building]] in Washington, DC, the [[Minnesota State Capitol]] and the [[Woolworth Building]] in New York City.<ref name="meyer">{{Cite book | author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. | title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition | year=1980 | publisher=Wayne State University Press | isbn=0-8143-1651-4 | url-access=registration | url=https://archive.org/details/detroitarchitect0000unse }}</ref>
Designed by [[Cass Gilbert]], the Detroit Public Library was constructed with Vermont marble and serpentine Italian marble trim in an [[Renaissance Revival architecture|Italian Renaissance]] style. His son, Cass Gilbert Jr. was a partner with [[Francis Keally]] in the design of the library's additional wings added in 1963. Among his other buildings, Cass Gilbert designed the [[United States Supreme Court Building]] in [[Washington, D.C.]], the [[Minnesota State Capitol]] and the [[Woolworth Building]] in [[New York City]].<ref name="meyer">{{Cite book | author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. | title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition | year=1980 | publisher=Wayne State University Press | isbn=0-8143-1651-4 | url-access=registration | url=https://archive.org/details/detroitarchitect0000unse }}</ref>


==History==
==History==
A stand-alone public library in Detroit dates back to 1865.<ref>{{cite web| title=Significant Dates in Michigan Library History| url=https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/0,2351,7-160-19270_28958-69498--,00.html| publisher=Library of Michigan| date=January 29, 2016| accessdate=May 8, 2018}}</ref> An 1842 state law requiring the [[Detroit Board of Education]] to open a [[library]] resulted in a public reading room opening on March 25, 1865 in the old Capitol High School at State and Griswold Street. In 1872, the Centre Park Library opened across the street from the current location of the Skillman Branch in downtown Detroit at Gratiot and Library Street. The first branch library opened in 1897 when the Detroit Water Commission library was opened to the public; in 1905 this library was turned over to the Detroit Library Commission.
A stand-alone public library in Detroit dates back to 1865.<ref>{{cite web| title=Significant Dates in Michigan Library History| url=https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/0,2351,7-160-19270_28958-69498--,00.html| publisher=Library of Michigan| date=January 29, 2016| access-date=May 8, 2018}}</ref> An 1842 state law requiring the [[Detroit Board of Education]] to open a [[library]] resulted in a public reading room opening on March 25, 1865, in the old Capitol High School at State and Griswold Street. In 1872, the Centre Park Library opened across the street from the current location of the Skillman Branch in downtown Detroit at Gratiot and Library Street. The first branch library opened in 1897 when the Detroit Water Commission library was opened to the public; in 1905 this library was turned over to the Detroit Library Commission.


[[File:Detroit Public Library.jpg|240px|thumb|left|The first library building, constructed in 1872 at Centre Park]]
[[File:Detroit Public Library.jpg|240px|thumb|left|The first library building, constructed in 1872 at Centre Park]]
Several additional branches opened shortly afterwards, including one in the Old Main building of [[Wayne State University]]. But it was not until 1910 when [[Andrew Carnegie]], the great American library [[philanthropist]] of the early 20th century, donated funds did Detroiters decide to build a larger central library to supplement Centre Park. Property near Woodward and Kirby was purchased and in 1912 [[Cass Gilbert]] was commissioned to construct his design of a three-floor, early [[Renaissance Revival architecture|Italian Renaissance]]-style building. Due to delays and [[World War I]], the Main Library did not open until March 21, 1921. It was dedicated June 3, 1921.<ref name="history">{{Cite web| title=DPL History| publisher=Detroit Public Library| url=http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/About_DPL/DPL_History.htm| year=2006| accessdate=2011-04-18| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110222012248/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/About_DPL/DPL_History.htm| archive-date=2011-02-22| url-status=dead}}</ref> The library system's bookmobile service began in 1940.<ref name="Gift">Carlisle, John (Detroitblogger John). "[http://metrotimes.com/culture/magic-bus-1.1161864 Magic bus]." ''[[Metro Times]]''. June 15, 2011. Retrieved on August 13, 2011.</ref>
Several additional branches opened shortly afterwards, including one in the Old Main building of Wayne State University. But it was not until 1910 when [[Andrew Carnegie]], the great American library [[philanthropist]] of the early 20th century, donated funds did Detroiters decide to build a larger central library to supplement Centre Park. Property near Woodward and Kirby was purchased and in 1912 Cass Gilbert was commissioned to construct his design of a three-floor, early Italian Renaissance-style building. Due to delays and [[World War I]], the Main Library did not open until March 21, 1921. It was dedicated June 3, 1921.<ref name="history">{{Cite web| title=DPL History| publisher=Detroit Public Library| url=http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/About_DPL/DPL_History.htm| year=2006| access-date=2011-04-18| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110222012248/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/About_DPL/DPL_History.htm| archive-date=2011-02-22| url-status=dead}}</ref> In 1937, the Detroit Public Library hired its first African-American librarian, [[Marjorie Adele Blackistone Bradfield|Marjorie A. Blackistone]]; Blackistone worked throughout her career to expand the library's [[African-American literature]] collection.<ref name="FreePress">{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/6124008/marjorie_bradfield_1999_obit_free_press/|title=Marjorie Bradfield: Put black history into library|last1=Audi|first1=Tamara|date=20 November 1999|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=8 September 2019}}</ref> The library system's bookmobile service began in 1940.<ref name="Gift">Carlisle, John (Detroitblogger John). "[http://metrotimes.com/culture/magic-bus-1.1161864 Magic bus] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110818193658/http://metrotimes.com/culture/magic-bus-1.1161864 |date=2011-08-18 }}." ''[[Metro Times]]''. June 15, 2011. Retrieved on August 13, 2011.</ref>

[[Ralph Ulveling]] was Director from 1941 to 1967.


[[File:Public Library (NBY 10500).jpg|thumb|Detroit Public Library depicted on a postcard]]
[[File:Public Library (NBY 10500).jpg|thumb|Detroit Public Library depicted on a postcard]]
After [[World War II]], Detroit Public Library obtained "projected books" on microfilm and loaned these with portable projectors to disabled veterans (and other patrons with disabilities) who could press a switch under their chin more easily than turning a page.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rusk|first=Howard A.|title=Special pontoon suits help disabled veterans to swim; microfilmed books, typewriting by remote control also assist the handicapped|newspaper=New York Times|date=27 July 1947|page=39}}</ref>
After [[World War II]], Detroit Public Library obtained "projected books" on microfilm and loaned these with portable projectors to disabled veterans (and other patrons with disabilities) who could press a switch under their chin more easily than turning a page.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rusk|first=Howard A.|title=Special pontoon suits help disabled veterans to swim; microfilmed books, typewriting by remote control also assist the handicapped|newspaper=New York Times|date=27 July 1947|page=39}}</ref>


The north and south wings opened on June 23, 1963 and added a significant amount of space to the building.<ref name="hour"/> The wings were connected along the rear of the original building and a new entrance created on Cass Avenue. Above this entrance is a mosaic by [[Millard Sheets]] entitled ''The River of Knowledge''.<ref name="det1701">{{cite web| title=The River of Knowledge Mosaic| publisher= detroit1701.org| url=http://www.detroit1701.org/River%20of%20Knowledge%20Mosaic.html| date=December 2007| accessdate=December 9, 2010}}</ref> As part of the addition, a tripych mural was added to the west wall of [[Adam Strohm]] Hall on the third floor. The mural by local artist John Stephens Coppin is entitled ''Man's Mobility'' and depicts a history of transportation. This mural compliments a tryparch mural on the opposite wall completed in 1921 by Gari Melchers depicting Detroit's early history.<ref name="hour">{{cite journal| title=The Main Detroit Public Library| work=[[Hour Detroit]]| publisher=hourdetroit.com| author=George Bulanda| url= http://www.hourdetroit.com/Hour-Detroit/September-2008/The-Main-Detroit-Public-Library/| date=September 2008| accessdate=December 9, 2010}}</ref>
The north and south wings opened on June 23, 1963, and added a significant amount of space to the building.<ref name="hour"/> The wings were connected along the rear of the original building and a new entrance created on Cass Avenue. Above this entrance is a mosaic by [[Millard Sheets]] entitled ''The River of Knowledge''.<ref name="det1701">{{cite web| title=The River of Knowledge Mosaic| publisher= detroit1701.org| url=http://www.detroit1701.org/River%20of%20Knowledge%20Mosaic.html| date=December 2007| access-date=December 9, 2010}}</ref> As part of the addition, a triptych mural was added to the west wall of [[Adam Strohm]] Hall on the third floor. The mural by local artist John Stephens Coppin is entitled ''Man's Mobility'' and depicts a history of transportation. This mural complements a tryparch mural on the opposite wall completed in 1921 by Gari Melchers depicting Detroit's early history.<ref name="hour">{{cite journal| title=The Main Detroit Public Library| journal=[[Hour Detroit]]| publisher=hourdetroit.com| author=George Bulanda| url= http://www.hourdetroit.com/Hour-Detroit/September-2008/The-Main-Detroit-Public-Library/| date=September 2008| access-date=December 9, 2010}}</ref>

In 1970 [[Clara Stanton Jones]] became the first African American and the first woman to serve as director of a major library system in America, as director of the Detroit Public Library.<ref name="Clara">{{Cite web|url=https://diversity.umich.edu/news-features/news/trailblazing-librarian-u-m-alumna-clara-stanton-jones-elected-to-michigan-womens-hall-of-fame/|title=Trailblazing librarian, U-M alumna Clara Stanton Jones elected to Michigan Women's Hall of Fame |website=Diversity, Equity & Inclusion &#124; University of Michigan|first=Sheryl |last=James |date=July 25, 2018 }}</ref>


The Detroit Public Library is also a founding member of the [[Detroit area library network]]. The network initially ran the [[Integrated Library System]] (online library catalog) for the library, but the library later purchased its own servers, after the [[mainframe computer]] era began to wane, and the library now runs its own systems. The library continues to be a member partner in the network consortium.<ref name="dalnet">{{Cite web| title=DALNET – Historical Timeline|date=November 2010| accessdate=2011-04-18| url=http://www.dalnet.lib.mi.us/docs/DALNET_history.pdf| publisher=The Detroit Area Library Network|author1=Louise Bugg |author2=Christy A. Wells |author3=Deborah Adams }}</ref>
The Detroit Public Library is also a founding member of the [[Detroit Area Library Network]]. The network initially ran the [[Integrated Library System]] (online library catalog) for the library, but the library later purchased its own servers, after the [[mainframe computer]] era began to wane, and the library now runs its own systems. The library continues to be a member partner in the network consortium.<ref name="dalnet">{{Cite web| title=DALNET – Historical Timeline|date=November 2010| access-date=2011-04-18| url=http://www.dalnet.lib.mi.us/docs/DALNET_history.pdf| publisher=The Detroit Area Library Network|author1=Louise Bugg |author2=Christy A. Wells |author3=Deborah Adams }}</ref>


==Administration==
==Administration==
The Detroit Public Library is a publicly funded, independent, municipal corporation. The Detroit Public Library Commission, whose members are appointed by the [[Detroit Public Schools]] Board of Education, is the governing authority for the system. The commission establishes policies and administers funds. There are 7 Library Commissioners, with the seventh commissioner being the current president of the Board of Education, who is an ex-officio commissioner. Library Commissioners are appointed to 6 year staggered terms. There is an annual general meeting where the president, vice president, and secretary of the commission are elected, and monthly meetings held at the Main Library which are open to the public. The commission appoint and hires the Director, Deputy Director and all other employees are hired by the commission, upon the recommendation of the Director.
The Detroit Public Library is a publicly funded, independent, municipal corporation. The Detroit Public Library Commission, whose members are appointed by the [[Detroit Public Schools]] Board of Education, is the governing authority for the system. The commission establishes policies and administers funds. There are 7 Library Commissioners, with the seventh commissioner being the current president of the Board of Education, who is an ex-officio commissioner. Library Commissioners are appointed to 6 year staggered terms. There is an annual general meeting where the president, vice president, and secretary of the commission are elected, and monthly meetings held at the Main Library which are open to the public. The commission appoints and hires the Director and deputy director, while all other employees are hired by the commission, upon the recommendation of the Director.


September 16, 2014, former chief administrative and technology officer Timothy Cromer was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a $1.5 million kickback scheme."<ref name=MacDonald>{{cite news| first=Christine| last=MacDonald| title=Former Detroit Library exec gets 10 years for bribery| url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/wayne-county/2014/09/16/former-detroit-library-exec-gets-10-years-for-bribery/15719861/| work=[[The Detroit News]]| date=September 16, 2014| accessdate=2014-11-12}}</ref><ref name=Peet>{{cite journal| first=Lisa| last=Peet| title=Ex-Detroit Library Official Timothy Cromer Sentenced to Ten Years| url=http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2014/11/litigation/ex-detroit-library-official-timothy-cromer-sentenced-to-ten-years/#| date=November 10, 2014| work=[[Library Journal]]| accessdate=2014-11-12}}</ref>
September 16, 2014, former chief administrative and technology officer Timothy Cromer was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a $1.5 million kickback scheme."<ref name=MacDonald>{{cite news| first=Christine| last=MacDonald| title=Former Detroit Library exec gets 10 years for bribery| url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/wayne-county/2014/09/16/former-detroit-library-exec-gets-10-years-for-bribery/15719861/| work=[[The Detroit News]]| date=September 16, 2014| access-date=2014-11-12}}</ref><ref name=Peet>{{cite journal| first=Lisa| last=Peet| title=Ex-Detroit Library Official Timothy Cromer Sentenced to Ten Years| url=http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2014/11/litigation/ex-detroit-library-official-timothy-cromer-sentenced-to-ten-years/| date=November 10, 2014| journal=[[Library Journal]]| access-date=2014-11-12| archive-date=November 13, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113013526/http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2014/11/litigation/ex-detroit-library-official-timothy-cromer-sentenced-to-ten-years/| url-status=dead}}</ref>


==Collections==
==Collections==
The Detroit Public Library offers users books, magazines, records, CDs, videos, DVDs and electronic materials through access to subscription databases. It also houses the Burton Historical Collection (named for historian and donor [[Clarence M. Burton]]), the [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/featuredcollection/e-azalia-hackley-collection E. Azalia Hackley Collection] (named for [[Emma Azalia Hackley]]), and the National Automotive History Collection. Additionally, there are online collections, including one on [[Detroit Tigers]] and [[Baseball Hall of Fame]] radio broadcaster [[Ernie Harwell]]. The [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/research/ernie-harwell-sports-collection Ernie Harwell Online Exhibit] is part of the Burton Historical Collection. The [https://detp.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/default/? Detroit Public Library Online Catalog]
The Detroit Public Library offers users books, magazines, records, CDs, videos, DVDs and electronic materials through access to subscription databases. It also houses the Burton Historical Collection (named for historian and donor [[Clarence M. Burton]]), the [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/featuredcollection/e-azalia-hackley-collection E. Azalia Hackley Collection] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130903070617/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/featuredcollection/e-azalia-hackley-collection |date=September 3, 2013 }} (named for [[Emma Azalia Hackley]]), and the National Automotive History Collection. Additionally, there are online collections, including one on [[Detroit Tigers]] and [[Baseball Hall of Fame]] radio broadcaster [[Ernie Harwell]]. The [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/research/ernie-harwell-sports-collection Ernie Harwell Online Exhibit] is part of the Burton Historical Collection. The [https://detp.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/default/? Detroit Public Library Online Catalog]


==Services==
==Services==
The library also offers practical advice to Detroiters through their TIP service, short for [http://www.detroitpubliclibrary.org/specialservice/tip The Information Place]. Librarians and support staff have access to a TIP database and offer free community information and referral service on matters such as food, housing, transportation, financial aid, legal advice, education, counseling, health care and family support. Library clients can search the TIP database themselves when visiting the library.
The library also offers practical advice to Detroiters through their TIP service, short for [http://www.detroitpubliclibrary.org/specialservice/tip The Information Place]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}. Librarians and support staff have access to a TIP database and offer free community information and referral service on matters such as food, housing, transportation, financial aid, legal advice, education, counseling, health care and family support. Library clients can search the TIP database themselves when visiting the library.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery class="center" widths="200px" heights="150px">
<gallery class="center" widths="200px" heights="150px">
File:Detroit April 2008 219.JPG|Main entrance of the Italian Renaissance-style building
File:Detroit April 2008 219.JPG|Main entrance of the Italian Renaissance-style building
File:DetroitPublicLibrarymainfromcass.jpg|Detroit Public Library, Cass Avenue entrance
File:DetroitPublicLibrarymainfromcass.jpg|Detroit Public Library, Cass Avenue entrance
Line 74: Line 80:


==Branches==
==Branches==
<ref name="branch1998">"[https://web.archive.org/web/19980613192924/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/locations_hours.htm Locations & Hours]." ''Detroit Public Library''. Retrieved on April 26, 2009.</ref><!--Ref for names-->
<ref name="branch1998">"[https://web.archive.org/web/19980613192924/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/locations_hours.htm Locations & Hours]." ''Detroit Public Library''. Retrieved on April 26, 2009.</ref><!--Ref for old names-->
<ref name="branch2024">"[https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations Locations]." ''Detroit Public Library''. Retrieved on April 22, 2024.</ref><!--Ref for current names-->
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Branch
! Branch
! Address
! Address
!Opened
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/bowen Herbert Bowen Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/bowen Herbert Bowen Branch]
| 3648 W. Vernor/W. Grand Blvd.
| 3648 W. Vernor/W. Grand Blvd.
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/campbell James Valentine Campbell Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/campbell James Valentine Campbell Branch]
| 8733 W. Vernor/Springwells
| 8733 W. Vernor/Springwells
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/chandler-park Chandler Park Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/chandler Chandler Park Branch]
| 12800 Harper/Dickerson
| 12800 Harper/Dickerson
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/chaney Henry Chaney Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/chaney Henry Chaney Branch]
| 16101 Grand River/Greenfield
| 16101 Grand River/Greenfield
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/chase Jessie C. Chase Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/chase Jessie C. Chase Branch]
| 17731 W. Seven M./Southfield
| 17731 W. Seven Mile/Southfield
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/conely Edwin F. Conely Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/conely Edwin F. Conely Branch]
| 4600 Martin/Michigan
| 4600 Martin/Michigan
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/douglass Frederick Douglass Branch for Specialized Services] (formerly The Frederick Douglass Center for Specialized Services)<ref name="branch1998"/>
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/douglass Frederick Douglass Branch, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped] (formerly The Frederick Douglass Center for Specialized Services)<ref name="branch1998"/>
| 3666 Grand River/Trumbull
| 3666 Grand River/Trumbull
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/duffield Divie B. Duffield Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/duffield Divie B. Duffield Branch]
| 2507 W. Grand Blvd./14th St.
| 2507 W. Grand Blvd./14th St.
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/edison Thomas A. Edison Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/edison Thomas A. Edison Branch]
| 18400 Joy Rd./Southfield
| 18400 Joy Rd./Southfield
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/elmwood-park Elmwood Park Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/elmwood Elmwood Park Branch]
| 550 Chene/Lafayette
| 550 Chene/Lafayette
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/franklin Benjamin Franklin Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/franklin Benjamin Franklin Branch]
| 13651 E. McNichols/Gratiot
| 13651 E. McNichols/Gratiot
|January 1950<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/hubbard Bela Hubbard Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/hubbard Bela Hubbard Branch]
| 12929 W. McNichols/J. Couzens
| 12929 W. McNichols/J. Couzens
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/jefferson Thomas Jefferson Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/jefferson Thomas Jefferson Branch]
| 12350 E. Outer Drive/E. Warren
| 12350 E. Outer Drive/E. Warren
| October 1951<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/knapp Elisabeth Knapp Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/knapp Elisabeth Knapp Branch]
| 13330 Conant/E. Davison
| 13330 Conant/E. Davison
| October 1950<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/lincoln Abraham Lincoln Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/lincoln Abraham Lincoln Branch]
| 1221 E. Seven Mile/Russell
| 1221 E. Seven Mile/Russell
| October 1951<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/main '''Main Library''']
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/main '''Main Library''']
| 5201 Woodward Ave.
| 5201 Woodward Ave.
|October 1951<ref name="freepress-1952">{{Cite news |date=1952-02-03 |title=Detroit Reads in New, Better Libraries |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press-detroit-reads-in-new/161500640/ |access-date=2024-12-25 |work=Detroit Free Press |pages=97}}</ref>
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/monteith John Monteith Branch] (Was scheduled to be abandoned/scrapped after Dec 22, 2011. Reopened in January 2012)
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/monteith John Monteith Branch] (Was scheduled to be abandoned/scrapped after Dec 22, 2011. Reopened in January 2012)
| 14100 Kercheval/Eastlawn
| 14100 Kercheval/Eastlawn
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/parkman Francis Parkman Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/parkman Francis Parkman Branch]
| 1766 Oakman Blvd./Linwood
| 1766 Oakman Blvd./Linwood
| 1931<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/redford Redford Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/redford Redford Branch]
| 21200 Grand River/W. McNichols
| 21200 Grand River/W. McNichols
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/sherwood-forest Sherwood Forest Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/sherwood Sherwood Forest Branch]
| 7117 W. Seven Mile/Livernois
| 7117 W. Seven Mile/Livernois
| February 1951<ref name="freepress-1952" />
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/skillman Rose and Robert Skillman Branch] (formerly Downtown Library)<ref name="branch1998"/>
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/skillman Rose and Robert Skillman Branch] (formerly Downtown Library)<ref name="branch1998"/>
| 121 Gratiot/Library
| 121 Gratiot/Library
|
|-
|-
| [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/branch/wilder Laura Ingalls Wilder Branch]
| [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations/wilder Laura Ingalls Wilder Branch]
| 7140 E. Seven Mile/Van Dyke
| 7140 E. Seven Mile/Van Dyke
|
|-
|-
| Detroit Public Library - Service Center
| Detroit Public Library - Service Center
| 5828 Third/Antoinette
| 5828 Third/Antoinette
|
|-
|-
|}
|}
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Farmer Street Side: "Civilization is the Accumulated Culture of Mankind"
Farmer Street Side: "Civilization is the Accumulated Culture of Mankind"


Candler Park, in the Eastside of Detroit, is a three-story facility built in 1957. The library, which has a collection specializing in books written by [[African-Americans]], is located on Harper Avenue, in proximity to Dickerson Street. The interior, {{asof|2009}}, is decorated with artwork from children living in the area and portraits of notable African-American people. In 2009 John Carlisle (Detroitblogger John) wrote in the ''[[Metro Times]]'' that most of its patrons go to the library to use its computers.<ref>Detroitblogger John. "[http://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/dewey-eyed/Content?oid=2193966 Dewey-eyed ]" ([https://www.webcitation.org/6gerA4NOJ?url=http://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/dewey-eyed/Content?oid%3D2193966 Archive]). ''[[Metro Times]]''. January 7, 2009. Retrieved on April 10, 2016.</ref>
Chandler Park, in the Eastside of Detroit, is a three-story facility built in 1957. The library, which has a collection specializing in books written by [[African-Americans]], is located on Harper Avenue, in proximity to Dickerson Street. {{As of|2009}}, the interior is decorated with artwork from children living in the area and portraits of notable African-American people. In 2009 John Carlisle (Detroitblogger John) wrote in the ''[[Metro Times]]'' that most of its patrons go to the library to use its computers.<ref>Detroitblogger John. "[http://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/dewey-eyed/Content?oid=2193966 Dewey-eyed ]" ([https://web.archive.org/web/20160623154812/http://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/dewey-eyed/Content?oid=2193966 Archive]). ''[[Metro Times]]''. January 7, 2009. Retrieved on April 10, 2016.</ref>


==Former branches==
==Former branches==
Line 169: Line 200:
* Bernard Ginsburg Branch (Closed in 1927 and turned over to Recreation Department.)
* Bernard Ginsburg Branch (Closed in 1927 and turned over to Recreation Department.)
* Gabriel Richard Branch (Was located on 9876 Grand River/Stoepel. Closed due to budget cuts on December 22, 2011)
* Gabriel Richard Branch (Was located on 9876 Grand River/Stoepel. Closed due to budget cuts on December 22, 2011)
* George Van Ness Lothrop Branch (At the southwest corner of West Warren Avenue and West Grand Boulevard-demolished October 2009)<ref name="detroitpublibs">{{cite web| title=Detroit Public Library Branches, 1914| publisher=archive.org| url=https://archive.org/stream/detroitpubliclib00detr/detroitpubliclib00detr_djvu.txt| accessdate=2011-01-02}}</ref>
* George Van Ness Lothrop Branch (At the southwest corner of West Warren Avenue and West Grand Boulevard-demolished October 2009)<ref name="detroitpublibs">{{cite web| title=Detroit Public Library Branches, 1914| url=https://archive.org/stream/detroitpubliclib00detr/detroitpubliclib00detr_djvu.txt| access-date=2011-01-02}}</ref>
* George Osius Branch
* George Osius Branch
* [[Henry Munson Utley|Henry M. Utley]] Branch ( 8726 Woodward Avenue, now "The Family Place". )<ref name="detroitpublibs"/><ref name="thefamilyplace">{{cite web| url=http://www.thefamilyplace4c.org/| title=The Family Place| publisher=thefamilyplace4c.org| accessdate=2011-01-02| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728093356/http://www.thefamilyplace4c.org/| archive-date=2011-07-28| url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Henry Munson Utley|Henry M. Utley]] Branch ( 8726 Woodward Avenue, now "The Family Place". )<ref name="detroitpublibs"/><ref name="thefamilyplace">{{cite web| url=http://www.thefamilyplace4c.org/| title=The Family Place| publisher=thefamilyplace4c.org| access-date=2011-01-02| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728093356/http://www.thefamilyplace4c.org/| archive-date=2011-07-28| url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Magnus Butzel Branch (At the southwest corner of Harper Avenue (I-94 Service Road) and East Grand Boulevard; demolished in 1998)<ref name="detroitpublibs"/>
* Magnus Butzel Branch (At the southwest corner of Harper Avenue (I-94 Service Road) and East Grand Boulevard; demolished in 1998)<ref name="detroitpublibs"/>
* Mark Twain Library (Closed and Relocated to Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in 1996. Demolished October 2011)
* Mark Twain Library (Closed and Relocated to Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in 1996. Demolished October 2011)
Line 181: Line 212:


==Further reading==
==Further reading==
*{{cite book |last=Christen |first=Barbara S. |author2=Flanders, Steven |title=Cass Gilbert, Life and Work: Architect of the Public Domain |publisher=W.W. Norton |year=2001 |isbn=978-0393730654 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x3X_D6L5JEwC&printsec=frontcover&dq=cass+gilbert&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj939uTy_DXAhUJxoMKHe_eCOIQ6AEILTAB#v=onepage&q&f=false}}
*{{cite book |last=Christen |first=Barbara S. |author2=Flanders, Steven |title=Cass Gilbert, Life and Work: Architect of the Public Domain |publisher=W.W. Norton |year=2001 |isbn=978-0393730654 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x3X_D6L5JEwC&q=cass+gilbert}}
* Cohn, Barbara Madgy and Patrice Rafail Merritt, ''The Detroit Public Library: An American Classic'' (Detroit, MI: Wayne State University Press, 2017).
*{{cite book |author1=Hill, Eric J. |author2=John Gallagher |title=AIA Detroit: The American Institute of Architects Guide to Detroit Architecture |year=2002 |publisher=Wayne State University Press |isbn=978-0814331200 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sZGskamYzjUC&pg=PA349&dq=Parnassus+on+Main+Street:+A+History+of+the+Detroit+Public+Library&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiu6bn8x_DXAhVGyYMKHapmBAM4ChDoAQglMAA#v=onepage&q&f=false}}
*{{cite book |author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. |title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition |year=1980 |publisher=Wayne State University Press |isbn=0-8143-1651-4 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GZ60AAAAIAAJ&q=detroit+architecture&dq=detroit+architecture&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwin5q2TyvDXAhVnzIMKHVSOAZ0Q6AEIOTAD |url-access=subscription }}
*{{cite book |author1=Hill, Eric J. |author2=John Gallagher |title=AIA Detroit: The American Institute of Architects Guide to Detroit Architecture |year=2002 |publisher=Wayne State University Press |isbn=978-0814331200 |url=https://archive.org/details/aiadetroitameric0000hill|url-access=registration |page=[https://archive.org/details/aiadetroitameric0000hill/page/349 349] |quote=Parnassus on Main Street: A History of the Detroit Public Library. }}
*{{cite book |last=Sharoff |first=Robert |title=American City: Detroit Architecture |publisher=Wayne State University Press | year=2005 |isbn=978-0814332702 |authorlink=Robert Sharoff |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_quVubxm6EMC&printsec=frontcover&dq=detroit+architecture&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwin5q2TyvDXAhVnzIMKHVSOAZ0Q6AEIJjAA#v=onepage&q&f=false}}
*{{cite book |author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. |title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition |year=1980 |publisher=Wayne State University Press |isbn=0-8143-1651-4 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GZ60AAAAIAAJ&q=detroit+architecture |url-access=subscription }}
*{{cite book |last=Sharoff |first=Robert |title=American City: Detroit Architecture |publisher=Wayne State University Press | year=2005 |isbn=978-0814332702 |author-link=Robert Sharoff |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_quVubxm6EMC&q=detroit+architecture}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{Portal|Michigan}}
{{Portal|Michigan}}
* [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/index.htm Official '''Detroit Public Library''' website] — ''includes a history of the Detroit Public Library and information on branches and access to the online catalogue.
{{commons category|position=left}}
{{commons category|position=left}}
* [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/tip/ TIP (The Information Place)].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070212161426/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/tip/ TIP (The Information Place)].
*[http://digital.library.wayne.edu/digitalcollections/item?id=wayne:collectionNYHS Selected Cass Gilbert Architectural Drawings of the Detroit Public Library] at [[Wayne State University]] Library contains 19 presentation drawings by Cass Gilbert of the Detroit Public Library, which he designed in 1921.
*[http://digital.library.wayne.edu/digitalcollections/item?id=wayne:collectionNYHS Selected Cass Gilbert Architectural Drawings of the Detroit Public Library] at [[Wayne State University]] Library contains 19 presentation drawings by Cass Gilbert of the Detroit Public Library, which he designed in 1921.
* The [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/research/ernie-harwell-sports-collection Ernie Harwell Online Exhibit].
* The [https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/research/ernie-harwell-sports-collection Ernie Harwell Online Exhibit].
* The [http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/drawingpower/index.htm Drawing Power: An Exhibit of Motor City Ad Art in the Age of Muscle and Chrome].
* The [https://web.archive.org/web/20070104000301/http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/drawingpower/index.htm Drawing Power: An Exhibit of Motor City Ad Art in the Age of Muscle and Chrome].
* [http://mmm.lib.msu.edu/search/browsecollections.cfm?t=2&col=48%20 The Making of Modern Michigan].
* [http://mmm.lib.msu.edu/search/browsecollections.cfm?t=2&col=48%20 The Making of Modern Michigan].


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{{Midtown Detroit}}
{{Midtown Detroit}}
{{Coord|42|21|30.9|N|83|4|0|W|region:US-MI|display=title}}
{{Coord|42|21|30.9|N|83|4|0|W|region:US-MI|display=title}}

{{authority control}}


[[Category:Public libraries in Michigan]]
[[Category:Public libraries in Michigan]]

Latest revision as of 01:14, 25 December 2024

Detroit Public Library
Detroit Public Library logo
Map
Location5201 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan
Established1865; 159 years ago (1865)
Branches21
Collection
Size7,572,562
Access and use
Population served918,849
Other information
DirectorJo Anne Mondowney
Websitehttp://www.detroitpubliclibrary.org
Detroit Public Library
Built1921, 1963
ArchitectCass Gilbert
Architectural styleItalian Renaissance
Part ofCultural Center Historic District (ID83003791)
Significant dates
Designated CPNovember 21, 1983
Designated MSHSJanuary 24, 1964[1]

The Detroit Public Library is the second largest library system in the U.S. state of Michigan by volumes held (after the University of Michigan Library) and the 12th-largest public library system in the United States.[2] It is composed of the Main Library on Woodward Avenue, which houses the library's administration offices, and 23 branch locations across the city. The Main Library is part of Detroit's Cultural Center Historic District listed in the National Register of Historic Places adjacent to Wayne State University campus and across from the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Designed by Cass Gilbert, the Detroit Public Library was constructed with Vermont marble and serpentine Italian marble trim in an Italian Renaissance style. His son, Cass Gilbert Jr. was a partner with Francis Keally in the design of the library's additional wings added in 1963. Among his other buildings, Cass Gilbert designed the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., the Minnesota State Capitol and the Woolworth Building in New York City.[3]

History

[edit]

A stand-alone public library in Detroit dates back to 1865.[4] An 1842 state law requiring the Detroit Board of Education to open a library resulted in a public reading room opening on March 25, 1865, in the old Capitol High School at State and Griswold Street. In 1872, the Centre Park Library opened across the street from the current location of the Skillman Branch in downtown Detroit at Gratiot and Library Street. The first branch library opened in 1897 when the Detroit Water Commission library was opened to the public; in 1905 this library was turned over to the Detroit Library Commission.

The first library building, constructed in 1872 at Centre Park

Several additional branches opened shortly afterwards, including one in the Old Main building of Wayne State University. But it was not until 1910 when Andrew Carnegie, the great American library philanthropist of the early 20th century, donated funds did Detroiters decide to build a larger central library to supplement Centre Park. Property near Woodward and Kirby was purchased and in 1912 Cass Gilbert was commissioned to construct his design of a three-floor, early Italian Renaissance-style building. Due to delays and World War I, the Main Library did not open until March 21, 1921. It was dedicated June 3, 1921.[5] In 1937, the Detroit Public Library hired its first African-American librarian, Marjorie A. Blackistone; Blackistone worked throughout her career to expand the library's African-American literature collection.[6] The library system's bookmobile service began in 1940.[7]

Ralph Ulveling was Director from 1941 to 1967.

Detroit Public Library depicted on a postcard

After World War II, Detroit Public Library obtained "projected books" on microfilm and loaned these with portable projectors to disabled veterans (and other patrons with disabilities) who could press a switch under their chin more easily than turning a page.[8]

The north and south wings opened on June 23, 1963, and added a significant amount of space to the building.[9] The wings were connected along the rear of the original building and a new entrance created on Cass Avenue. Above this entrance is a mosaic by Millard Sheets entitled The River of Knowledge.[10] As part of the addition, a triptych mural was added to the west wall of Adam Strohm Hall on the third floor. The mural by local artist John Stephens Coppin is entitled Man's Mobility and depicts a history of transportation. This mural complements a tryparch mural on the opposite wall completed in 1921 by Gari Melchers depicting Detroit's early history.[9]

In 1970 Clara Stanton Jones became the first African American and the first woman to serve as director of a major library system in America, as director of the Detroit Public Library.[11]

The Detroit Public Library is also a founding member of the Detroit Area Library Network. The network initially ran the Integrated Library System (online library catalog) for the library, but the library later purchased its own servers, after the mainframe computer era began to wane, and the library now runs its own systems. The library continues to be a member partner in the network consortium.[12]

Administration

[edit]

The Detroit Public Library is a publicly funded, independent, municipal corporation. The Detroit Public Library Commission, whose members are appointed by the Detroit Public Schools Board of Education, is the governing authority for the system. The commission establishes policies and administers funds. There are 7 Library Commissioners, with the seventh commissioner being the current president of the Board of Education, who is an ex-officio commissioner. Library Commissioners are appointed to 6 year staggered terms. There is an annual general meeting where the president, vice president, and secretary of the commission are elected, and monthly meetings held at the Main Library which are open to the public. The commission appoints and hires the Director and deputy director, while all other employees are hired by the commission, upon the recommendation of the Director.

September 16, 2014, former chief administrative and technology officer Timothy Cromer was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a $1.5 million kickback scheme."[13][14]

Collections

[edit]

The Detroit Public Library offers users books, magazines, records, CDs, videos, DVDs and electronic materials through access to subscription databases. It also houses the Burton Historical Collection (named for historian and donor Clarence M. Burton), the E. Azalia Hackley Collection Archived September 3, 2013, at the Wayback Machine (named for Emma Azalia Hackley), and the National Automotive History Collection. Additionally, there are online collections, including one on Detroit Tigers and Baseball Hall of Fame radio broadcaster Ernie Harwell. The Ernie Harwell Online Exhibit is part of the Burton Historical Collection. The Detroit Public Library Online Catalog

Services

[edit]

The library also offers practical advice to Detroiters through their TIP service, short for The Information Place[permanent dead link‍]. Librarians and support staff have access to a TIP database and offer free community information and referral service on matters such as food, housing, transportation, financial aid, legal advice, education, counseling, health care and family support. Library clients can search the TIP database themselves when visiting the library.

[edit]
  • Main entrance of the Italian Renaissance-style building
    Main entrance of the Italian Renaissance-style building
  • Detroit Public Library, Cass Avenue entrance
    Detroit Public Library, Cass Avenue entrance
  • Detail of the Mosaic above the Cass Avenue entrance
    Detail of the Mosaic above the Cass Avenue entrance
  • Pewabic fireplace in the HYPE Teen Center
    Pewabic fireplace in the HYPE Teen Center
  • HYPE Teen Center
    HYPE Teen Center
  • Children's Library
    Children's Library
  • Burton Historical Collection
    Burton Historical Collection
  • Skillman Branch, opened in 1932 on the site of the Centre Park Branch
    Skillman Branch, opened in 1932 on the site of the Centre Park Branch
  • Skillman Branch seen from the aptly named Library Street
    Skillman Branch seen from the aptly named Library Street
  • Skillman Branch reopened in 2006 after renovations
    Skillman Branch reopened in 2006 after renovations

Branches

[edit]

[15] [16]

Branch Address Opened
Herbert Bowen Branch 3648 W. Vernor/W. Grand Blvd.
James Valentine Campbell Branch 8733 W. Vernor/Springwells
Chandler Park Branch 12800 Harper/Dickerson
Henry Chaney Branch 16101 Grand River/Greenfield
Jessie C. Chase Branch 17731 W. Seven Mile/Southfield
Edwin F. Conely Branch 4600 Martin/Michigan
Frederick Douglass Branch, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (formerly The Frederick Douglass Center for Specialized Services)[15] 3666 Grand River/Trumbull
Divie B. Duffield Branch 2507 W. Grand Blvd./14th St.
Thomas A. Edison Branch 18400 Joy Rd./Southfield
Elmwood Park Branch 550 Chene/Lafayette
Benjamin Franklin Branch 13651 E. McNichols/Gratiot January 1950[17]
Bela Hubbard Branch 12929 W. McNichols/J. Couzens
Thomas Jefferson Branch 12350 E. Outer Drive/E. Warren October 1951[17]
Elisabeth Knapp Branch 13330 Conant/E. Davison October 1950[17]
Abraham Lincoln Branch 1221 E. Seven Mile/Russell October 1951[17]
Main Library 5201 Woodward Ave. October 1951[17]
John Monteith Branch (Was scheduled to be abandoned/scrapped after Dec 22, 2011. Reopened in January 2012) 14100 Kercheval/Eastlawn
Francis Parkman Branch 1766 Oakman Blvd./Linwood 1931[17]
Redford Branch 21200 Grand River/W. McNichols
Sherwood Forest Branch 7117 W. Seven Mile/Livernois February 1951[17]
Rose and Robert Skillman Branch (formerly Downtown Library)[15] 121 Gratiot/Library
Laura Ingalls Wilder Branch 7140 E. Seven Mile/Van Dyke
Detroit Public Library - Service Center 5828 Third/Antoinette

The Douglass Branch for Specialized Services is the base of operations for the bookmobile service, and it also houses the Library for the Blind and the Physically Handicapped and other special services.[7]

The quotes on the outside of the Skillman Branch read, per side:

Gratiot Avenue : "The Fountain of Knowledge Flows Through Books"

Library Street Side: "The Wealth Of The Mind Is The Only True Wealth"

Grand River Street Side : "Religion, Knowledge, Morality"

Farmer Street Side: "Civilization is the Accumulated Culture of Mankind"

Chandler Park, in the Eastside of Detroit, is a three-story facility built in 1957. The library, which has a collection specializing in books written by African-Americans, is located on Harper Avenue, in proximity to Dickerson Street. As of 2009, the interior is decorated with artwork from children living in the area and portraits of notable African-American people. In 2009 John Carlisle (Detroitblogger John) wrote in the Metro Times that most of its patrons go to the library to use its computers.[18]

Former branches

[edit]
  • John S. Gray Branch[15]
  • Bernard Ginsburg Branch (Closed in 1927 and turned over to Recreation Department.)
  • Gabriel Richard Branch (Was located on 9876 Grand River/Stoepel. Closed due to budget cuts on December 22, 2011)
  • George Van Ness Lothrop Branch (At the southwest corner of West Warren Avenue and West Grand Boulevard-demolished October 2009)[19]
  • George Osius Branch
  • Henry M. Utley Branch ( 8726 Woodward Avenue, now "The Family Place". )[19][20]
  • Magnus Butzel Branch (At the southwest corner of Harper Avenue (I-94 Service Road) and East Grand Boulevard; demolished in 1998)[19]
  • Mark Twain Library (Closed and Relocated to Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in 1996. Demolished October 2011)
  • Mark Twain Annex (Closed due to budget cuts on December 22, 2011. Located at 4741 Iroquois)
  • George S. Hosmer Branch (Opened January 11, 1911 and closed May 30, 1932. Located at 3506 Gratiot Avenue. Purchased in 2016 and planned to be a bookstore and café.)[21][22]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Main Detroit Public Library". Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Archived from the original on May 24, 2012. Retrieved September 1, 2010.
  2. ^ "The Nation's Largest Libraries by Volumes Held". American Library Association.
  3. ^ Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. (1980). Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition. Wayne State University Press. ISBN 0-8143-1651-4.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  4. ^ "Significant Dates in Michigan Library History". Library of Michigan. January 29, 2016. Retrieved May 8, 2018.
  5. ^ "DPL History". Detroit Public Library. 2006. Archived from the original on February 22, 2011. Retrieved April 18, 2011.
  6. ^ Audi, Tamara (November 20, 1999). "Marjorie Bradfield: Put black history into library". Detroit Free Press. Retrieved September 8, 2019.
  7. ^ a b Carlisle, John (Detroitblogger John). "Magic bus Archived 2011-08-18 at the Wayback Machine." Metro Times. June 15, 2011. Retrieved on August 13, 2011.
  8. ^ Rusk, Howard A. (July 27, 1947). "Special pontoon suits help disabled veterans to swim; microfilmed books, typewriting by remote control also assist the handicapped". New York Times. p. 39.
  9. ^ a b George Bulanda (September 2008). "The Main Detroit Public Library". Hour Detroit. hourdetroit.com. Retrieved December 9, 2010.
  10. ^ "The River of Knowledge Mosaic". detroit1701.org. December 2007. Retrieved December 9, 2010.
  11. ^ James, Sheryl (July 25, 2018). "Trailblazing librarian, U-M alumna Clara Stanton Jones elected to Michigan Women's Hall of Fame". Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | University of Michigan.
  12. ^ Louise Bugg; Christy A. Wells; Deborah Adams (November 2010). "DALNET – Historical Timeline" (PDF). The Detroit Area Library Network. Retrieved April 18, 2011.
  13. ^ MacDonald, Christine (September 16, 2014). "Former Detroit Library exec gets 10 years for bribery". The Detroit News. Retrieved November 12, 2014.
  14. ^ Peet, Lisa (November 10, 2014). "Ex-Detroit Library Official Timothy Cromer Sentenced to Ten Years". Library Journal. Archived from the original on November 13, 2014. Retrieved November 12, 2014.
  15. ^ a b c d "Locations & Hours." Detroit Public Library. Retrieved on April 26, 2009.
  16. ^ "Locations." Detroit Public Library. Retrieved on April 22, 2024.
  17. ^ a b c d e f g "Detroit Reads in New, Better Libraries". Detroit Free Press. February 3, 1952. p. 97. Retrieved December 25, 2024.
  18. ^ Detroitblogger John. "Dewey-eyed " (Archive). Metro Times. January 7, 2009. Retrieved on April 10, 2016.
  19. ^ a b c "Detroit Public Library Branches, 1914". Retrieved January 2, 2011.
  20. ^ "The Family Place". thefamilyplace4c.org. Archived from the original on July 28, 2011. Retrieved January 2, 2011.
  21. ^ Aguilar, Louis (September 27, 2016). "Historic public library on Gratiot to open as bookstore". The Detroit News.
  22. ^ Woodford, Frank B. ″Parnassus on Main Street: A History of the Detroit Public Library. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1965.

Further reading

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[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Detroit Public Library.

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