Historical Library Buildings

St. Charles, IL 1903

VE's post yesterday made me think of the old library buildings and the opportunity they gave everyone to have access to books. Not too long ago a tenth grade education was considered a fine achievement, and the cost of obtaining a formal higher education and supporting yourself and/or family at the same time made it impossible for the majority. However, throughout our history many men and women were able to obtain the equivalent by taking advantage of the books offered in public libraries.
Some libraries were magnificent buildings and others were very humble. The large cities constructed huge, impressive libraries while the smaller communities used whatever buildings were available.

New York City, 1908

Wisconsin, 1908

I remember standing in line to check out my books when I was younger. I thought the little pocket that the library card fit into was so "neat", and I always felt so grown-up holding my books . Today it's all digital and, although it's faster, it's lost that personal touch that was always to special.

1930

Arcadia, CA 1953

(This is the period of time I remember. Just thought I should mention that.)

 Janesville, WI 1903

Wisconsin 1912

There are many of the old libraries still standing and in use around the country.

Built in 1905

Built in 1908

I'm sorry to say this is not one of them.  It was built in 1858 but was demolished to build a new one around 1895.

Have a nice day...and take a trip to your local library. All kinds of adventures await you and reading is the best way to escape into another world, at least for a little while.

Pepper, Pep, Helmet Head