Columbus Metro Library
From a small reading room to one of the top facilities in the nation, the Columbus Metropolitan Library educates Central Ohio and beyond.
Dating back to the 3rd century BC and the founding of the Royal Libraryof Alexandria-the later destruction of which would prove to be a huge loss to humanity-libraries have been synoymous with community.
While few libraries have surpassed the Royal Library of Alexandria with its more than 500,000 volumes of history on hand-written papyrus scrolls, the Columbus Metropolitan Library has made quite a name for itself, not only locally, but nationally with a collection that has grown to include 3 million items.
Rated the #1 library in the country for 2005 by Hennen's American Public Library Rating Index (HAPLRI), the Columbus Metropolitan Library has enjoyed a more than 125 year history as a staple in downtown Columbus. 2005 wasn’t the first time the library reached the #1 spot. In 1999, Columbus Metropolitan Library was rated first in the nation by HAPLRI. The HAPLRI findings are published in the October 2005 edition of American Libraries, the official magazine of the American Library Association.
In the BeginningIn 1873, a public library and reading room were opened in the southeast corner of the City Hall building. This small library would grow to become one of the most-used library systems in the country.
Advances in TechnologyAlways staying a step ahead of the times, the library made efforts early on to provide the latest technology to its visitors. In 1888, the Library Board contracted the Central Union Telephone Company to install the first telephone. In 1892, the library purchased its first typewriter on an installment plan.
ExpansionAs the 20th century approached, the library grew by leaps and bounds. By 1895, the Columbus City Council approved a library addition to City Hall. A year later, funds were appropriated for a one-story extension of the library on a vacant lot to the east of City Hall. The extension office housed the stack room, reading room, reference room and librarian’s office.
At the turn of the century, big changes started taking place. The library was officially named the Columbus Public Library, a mansion at 96 S. Grant Ave. was demolished to make way for a main branch to be constructed and, by the end of the year, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the new building made possible by a monetary gift from Andrew Carnegie.
Branching outBy 1907, an early form of library branches started springing up in the form of deposit collections strategically placed in fire houses, settlement houses and schools. Also that year, the new main library was completed and opened to the public. It wasn’t until 1928 that official branches were dedicated in Clintonville, Hilltop, Linden and Parsons Avenue. Two years later a fifth branch opened on Leona Avenue. Subsequent branches would continue to open, growing to the 22 branches that exist today.
What's NewHoused in a beautiful, historic building, the Columbus Metropolitan Library has an open, airy, inviting interior and many programs that draw visitors from all over representing all age groups.
Most recently, the library has teamed up with The Ohio Arts Council to host their first annual juried art show at the main branch. The show runs from August to November and offers cash awards to talented Ohio artists.
All entrants must be registered in the Ohio Online Visual Artist Registry. This is a database of more than 700 artists nationwide created by the Ohio Arts Council and Columbus Metropolitan Library in 1998.
To become a friend of the library, learn about the multitude of library services or to just get recommendations for a good summer read, visit the Columbus Metropolitan Library, either online, or head downtown and get lost in the stacks.
Interesting Facts from 2005Customers borrowed more than 16 million items
There were 8.2 million visits to the library
1.2 million reference questions were asked.
Important Dates in History
From devastating fires to important donations and new programs, the Columbus Metropolitan Library has earned its place in Columbus’ history.
1928 The fountain and statue of Peter Pan is donated by Charles E. Munson in memory of his son. It is dedicated to the children of Columbus.
1948 Microfilm collection is started.
1949 Hospital and Homebound services begin.
1950 Vinyl LP record collection begins.
1951 The Audio-Visual Division opens.
1951 The Library's first bookmobile begins operation. The bookmobile has a collection of about 2,000 items and circulates 75,261 items.
1955 Library circulation passes the million mark.
1961 The new Humanities and Biography, History, and Travel Divisions open at the Main Library.
1963 The paperback collection begins.
1966 The Library purchased its first Xerox 914 photocopier.
1970 Circulation of 8mm films begins.
1970"Billy Bookworm," a puppet designed by library staff to teach children how to use the library, debuts on Lucy's Toyshop a local children's TV program.
1975 Books by Mail Service begins.
1975 The Library system's name changes from Columbus Public Library to Public Library of Columbus and Franklin County (PLCFC).
1977 The first personal computers provided for the public become available.
1978 The largest toy lending library in Ohio is established at the Main Library.
1978 The library system's first videos are added to the collection.
1978 Renovation of the Main Library begins, eventually adding 18,000 square feet of public service space.
1978 The Library wins the John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award.
1978 The Magazines and Newspapers Division (M&N) is opened at Main Library.
1985 Columbus Metropolitan Library's first Media Center opens at Main Library.
1991 Main Library reaches the one million visitors mark.
2004 Science, Business and News division is formally named.
2004 Know-it-Now, a 24/7 virtual reference service, began. 2005: Rated the #1 library in the country by Hennen's American Public Library Rating Index.