Stratford CT, Public Library, 1945

 

The Stratford Library in Stratford, Connecticut, has a rich history spanning over a century. Established in 1897, it began as a small collection housed in various locations, including the post office and private homes. In 1927, the library found a permanent home at Jefferson and Atlantic Avenues, where it operated until 1959. That year, it moved into a wing of the Borough Hall, remaining there until 1961. In 1961, the library relocated to 302 Union Avenue, a building that had previously served as a sheep barn and later as a school. 

Worcester MA, Public Library, 1906

 

1868: A new building was constructed at the corner of Salem and Common Streets. The building was designed by architect Stephen C. Earle in a Romanesque Revival style and opened in 1869. This location helped the library grow its collections and services.

Holyoke MA, Public Library, 1906

 

The original library building was designed by architect Stephen C. Earle, an established architect from Worcester. It was a classic design, constructed in the Romanesque style, and was completed in 1892. This building stood as a testament to Holyoke’s ambition to be a center of culture and learning amidst the industrial boom.

Leominster MA, Public Library, 1950s

 

The first library was formed as a subscription library, where residents paid to become members. This library was housed in a small room within the town hall.

Marblehead MA, Public Library, 1960s

 

In 1954, the library moved to a new building at 235 Pleasant Street, funded by a $20,000 bequest from Gregory O. Lyon. This location served the community for several decades. In 2022, the library temporarily relocated to the site of the old Eveleth School on Brook Road to facilitate major renovations and upgrades.

Bangor ME, Public Library, 1940s

 

In 1912, construction began on a new library building designed by the architectural firm Peabody & Stearns. Completed in December 1913, the building featured a copper-framed dome, a glass rotunda, and a grand staircase. The library's design incorporated classical detailing and was set in a downtown public park adjacent to City Hall and the main shopping district. 

Cape Cod, South Yarmouth MA, Public Library, 1964

 

The library was originally founded as part of the Cape Cod Library Association in the late 19th century. It began as a small community-driven initiative to provide access to literature and education. Over the years, as the population grew and the need for a formalized space for learning became more apparent, the library expanded. Its building, which has seen several renovations and upgrades, serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Orlando FL, Public Library, 1960s

 

In 1966, a new 60,000-square-foot library building was completed at 101 E. Central Blvd., designed in a contemporary, modernist style by architect John M. Johansen.

Marlboro, Massachusetts, Public Library, c1905

 

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Oak Park, Illinois, Public Library, 1960s

 

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New Castle, Pennsylvania, Public Library, 1960s

 

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Public Library, Plymouth, Indiana, 1947

 

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Public Library, South West Harbor, Maine, 1910

 

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Public Library, Winchester Indiana, 1938

 

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Public Library, South China, Maine, 1906

 

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Public Library, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, c1910

 

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Public Library, Trinidad, Colorado, 1908

 

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Public Library, Franklin, Indiana

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Public Library, Greene, New York, c1950s

 

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Public Library, Simsbury, Connecticut, c1905

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