Librariana I: History
Scope and Contents
This small collection on the History of the Newark Public Library consists mostly of secondary articles and essay written by various staff members. Of particular interest is the thesis by Julia Sabine on the “Antecedents of the Newark Public Library” (1946), along with her other writings from the 1970s. A history celebrating the 100th anniversary in 1989 is also included, as well as the exhibition labels for the exhibition on the 125th anniversary in 2014.
Dates
- 1846 - 2019
Biographical / Historical
The Newark Public Library traces its roots to a referendum in 1887, which approved the founding of a free public library, open to all citizens. Thereafter, the Board of Trustees was established; a librarian, Frank P. Hill, was hired; and the former holdings of the Newark Library Association (a subscription library founded in 1847) were acquired (approximately 10,000 volumes). The new Free Public Library of Newark was opened in 1889 on West Park Street near Broad Street (in the former building for the Newark Library Association). By the end of its first decade, a new building was under construction on Washington Street – one that opened in 1902.
Throughout its history, the Newark Public Library has served and enriched the lives and experiences of citizens and visitors by offering exhibits, cultural programs, classes, reference assistance, popular and research level collections, especially in art and local history, all free of charge.
Extent
.42 Linear Feet (1 box)
Language of Materials
English
Abstract
This small collection on the History of the Newark Public Library consists mostly of secondary articles and essay written by various staff members.
Repository Details
Part of the Charles F. Cummings New Jersey Information Center, Newark Public Library Repository
3rd Floor
Newark Public Library
5 Washington St.
Newark NJ 07102 United States
973-733-7775
njreference@npl.org