Library's 150th Birthday Party!

Program Type:

150th Anniversary, Special Event

Age Group:

Everyone
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Event Details

The Rock Island Public Library officially opened November 25, 1872, making us the first library in Illinois to open for public business following the passage of the Local Library Act! On November 7, 1872, the new Rock Island Public Library board prepared for opening day by moving their library books and furniture into rented rooms at the Mitchell & Lynde Bank building on 2nd Avenue, our first home!

Our accelerated opening was made possible by the Young Men's Literary Association, who offered their private library, equipment, and the services of their librarian, Miss Ellen Gale to the City of Rock Island for a "truly free public library." 

Join us for a birthday party and help us celebrate the kickoff of the "Year of the Library!"