Hartford Public Library

Mission: Hartford Public Library promotes literacy and learning, provides free and open access to information and ideas, and helps people participate in our democratic process. The library has nine branches throughout the city.

Background: The library was founded in 1774 as the Librarian Company by a few subscribers to purchase a “collection of useful and religious books.” In 1838, in harmony with the movement towards lyceums and literary culture that was spreading across the country, a new organization, the Hartford Library Association, with taxpayer support, opened to the public.

The name was officially changed to the Hartford Public Library by a special act of the Connecticut General Assembly on May 9, 1893.

The library was located at the Wadsworth Atheneum from 1844 to early 1957. Today, Hartford Public Library sits a stone throw from where the Librarian Company first began.

From the Grammar School to the Wadsworth Atheneum, to the move to a “modern facility” at 500 Main St. in the mid-1950s; and now, with the 21st century renovations and expansion, the library, through all these wonderful growing pains, has had the support of the public.

The stunning renovation and expansion of the downtown library will take the library into the 21st century fully equipped to serve the citizens of Hartford, and indeed, the entire greater Hartford region.

The city of Hartford contributes 88 percent of the library’s operating budget. The remainder is from various sources raised by the library.

There are many opportunities for individuals and corporations to partner with the library to sponsor programs, events, and the library’s collections in support of the literacy and lifelong learning needs of the people in Hartford and the region.

Hartford Public Library’s history continues to be distinguished by its service to the community and by the community’s enduring commitment to the library.

Major Fundraiser: One Big Summer Night, the annual author event, will be held on June 26 at the downtown library featuring Wally Lamb. Colin McEnroe is this year’s honorary chairman.

Leadership:

Janet L. Benedict, interim director;

Matthew K. Poland, interim director;

Geraldine P. Sullivan, board president;

Gregory C. Davis, board vice-president;

Romulo Samaniego, board secretary;Paul D. Shipman, board treasurer.

Contact Information:

Hartford Public Library

500 Main St.

Hartford CT 06103

(860) 695-6300

www.hplct.org

Matthew K. Poland is interim director of the Hartford Public Library.