Curious about a place that began with less than 150 books? That place is the Hamtramck Public Library. It stands as a testament to Hamtramck’s commitment to knowledge. Let’s step inside and uncover its story.
The Hamtramck Public Library has been serving the community for over a century. Founded in November 1918 by the Tau Beta Association, it started as a small community house library. Imagine a single room holding those first few books. It was available to all Hamtramck residents.
Over the years, the Hamtramck Public Library moved several times. It needed larger facilities to accommodate its growing collection. From a room on Hanley Avenue to a store on Clay and Campau Avenues, the library adapted. Public funds from the Board of Education and the City of Hamtramck supported it.
In 1938, the Hamtramck Public Library moved to the second floor of a professional building. This location was at Campau and Caniff. After World War II, the library added a Polish language collection. This was due to the arrival of many Polish refugees. A small children’s branch opened in the Tau Beta Community House.
The current Hamtramck Public Library building opened on July 1, 1956. Groundbreaking occurred the previous year. The new building could hold about 50000 books. It also featured a special auditorium for community meetings. Today, the Hamtramck Public Library still occupies this building.
In 2002, the Hamtramck Public Library underwent major renovations. All the windows lights and the heating system were replaced. In 2003, residents approved a library millage. This made the library independent of city finances.
Under Library Director E. Tamara Sochacka, the library expanded its services. A computer lab was added. Broad band internet access became available. The library began a multi-lingual collection of books. Many more services were added under her leadership.
The Hamtramck Public Library offers a diverse range of programs. These include ESL classes math competitions and poetry programs. The library also hosts children’s movies and after school tutoring. It’s a vibrant institution.
In 2018, the Hamtramck Public Library celebrated its 100th anniversary. The library is a member of The Library Network. This is a public library cooperative serving 65 libraries in southeast Michigan. The Hamtramck Public Library offers its full services to all residents. Its collection includes 70000 books and a large selection of multimedia.
Hipolit C. Wagner’s memoirs are a special part of the library’s collection. His son Arthur Wagner translated and donated the journal. Hipolit Wagner lived in Hamtramck. His journal covers his immigration to America and his service in the Polish Army.
The Hamtramck Public Library stands as a pillar of the community. It provides access to knowledge and information for all. From its humble beginnings to its current vibrant state, it continues to serve the residents of Hamtramck. As you leave, remember the Hamtramck Public Library. A place where stories and community intertwine.