Russell Library, Middletown, Connecticut, 1906

 

Russell Library, Middletown, Connecticut

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1942 Russell Library, Middletown, Connecticut

[LIB6586] - "It is believed that the commendable examples given in the following report, of other towns of New England profusely contributing to such institutions, will stimulate our people to some action towards improving the resources of the Russell Library. This centennial year of our city is a fitting time for such a good work. If all of our citizens would contribute as they are able it is believed that the required sum would be readily raised." [Public support of the Free Public Library: A report made to the Trustees of the Russell Library, by G.F. Winchester, Librarian. Printed by order of the Trustees (Google eBook)]

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c1915 Rich Hall Library, Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut

When Wesleyan opened in 1831, the library was housed in one of the public rooms in the Lyceum, now known as South College. Soon after the Civil War the institution began its expansion to the south with a separate library building. Funding was guaranteed by Isaac Rich, a Boston fish merchant and longtime trustee, provided that alumni raised an endowment for the purchase of books.

President Joseph Cummings himself designed a light and airy new library, in the then popular alcove style, and superintended its construction. Dedicated in 1868, Rich Hall -- described in the student newspaper as an "elegant edifice" and "noble structure" -- cost $40,000, contained 18,000 volumes, and served a student body of 148. The faculty, including President Cummings, numbered seven. More information, click here.

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The Russell Library, Middletown, Connecticut

"Established 1875. The renovated building is the former Christ Episcopal Church, where the first public High School classes in Connecticut were conducted, and where Samuel Colt was married."

Frances Russell established Russell Library in 1875 in memory of her husband, Samuel. The Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity had built the building on the corner of Broad and Court Streets in 1834, and Mrs. Russell purchased and remodeled it in the Roman Gothic Style. The building opened as the public library for the City of Middletown on April 5, 1876. In 1930, the City helped to add the Hubbard wing, and in 1972 completed the remodeled Children's Library, originally the First Federal Saving and Loan Association of Meriden, built in 1965. [SOURCE]

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