Library Spotlights

Greetings:

Library Enthusiasts & Bibliophiles:

Although February is a short month, it seemed very long to me! Several snowstorms, including a blizzard, make it wonderful to flip the calendar to March and the arrival of spring. I had the pleasure of touring the Bristol Public Library located in Bristol, CT.  It is a wonderful building, loaded with history and so much to offer the residents of Bristol, CT. Fun fact: At one time long ago, the library had a Men’s Smoking Room! There is also a branch location in Forestville, CT.  All the fun began in 1892! As always, experience library joy at a public library near you!

Let’s Visit the Bristol Public Library

In 1892, the Bristol Public Library opened its doors. In four short years, the library outgrew its location and moved to the Charles Treadway House. As the collection grew, more space was needed, and the Treadway House was too small.

New York architect William Potter designed the new library in a Colonial Revival Style. The new building was dedicated in 1907. Now there was space for reference materials, a larger circulation desk, a children's area, and on the second floor, a public meeting space.

Over the years, additions and renovations have been made to the building. The last renovation was completed in 2006, revealing the North side of the building, which had not been seen for decades.

Today, the library remains an important feature of the town. The collections contain more than 200,000 books, magazines, CDs, and other materials. Special programs for children, adults, and teens are well-attended and scheduled. The Friends of the Library raise funds for extra programs such as the annual author luncheon.

The white columns greet you as you enter the Bristol Public Library. The brick building is in the Colonial Revival style.

“About Us.” Bristol Public Library, 26 Oct. 2024, bristollib.com/about-us/.