Opening the New Library

Main Library was dedicated on April 4, 1907, which turned out to be an extraordinarily rainy day. In addition, U.S. District Court Justice J.E. Sater missed his train in Cincinnati and several other speakers were unable to attend at the last minute. Nonetheless, the Dispatch reported that “a remarkably jubilant spirit, almost approaching levity, seemed to prevail.” Regular library service began on April 8. The new library included an auditorium and space for exhibits and cultural displays. The building was considered fireproof, since the only wood used was on railings leading up to the second floor and down to the basement.

The library opened for regular service on Monday, April 8, 1907. Over 1,500 new library cards were issued in the first 20 days. This photograph shows the south wing of the second floor, which was the magazine and periodical reading room.

An exhibit of American birds was built on the second floor to appeal to children. In 1938, the birds were donated to the Ohio State Museum.

This view shows the back of the Carnegie Library (now facing Topiary Park) before the addition was built.

The new library included a children’s space.

A 200-seat auditorium in the basement offered a gathering space.