What if a library held the secrets to not just stories within its books, but the very story of a city itself? Here, before the Newberry Library, those secrets whisper from behind the imposing granite facade. The Newberry Library isn’t just a repository of old texts. It is a vibrant hub of humanities research, free and open to the public since 1887. Its mission is to inspire a deeper understanding of our world. The Newberry Library achieves this by encouraging research, learning, and discussions.
Walter Loomis Newberry, a prominent Chicago businessman, envisioned this haven of knowledge. He tragically died at sea in 1868. His will stipulated that if his children died without heirs, a “free public library” would be established. Fate aligned with his wishes. The Newberry Library was born after his widow’s death in 1885. Ironically, Newberry’s personal book collection was lost in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This left the first librarians with the daunting yet exciting task of building a collection from scratch.
The Newberry Library opened its doors in 1893 in a magnificent Spanish Romanesque building. It stands as a testament to the vision of its first librarian, William Frederick Poole, and architect Henry Ives Cobb. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of over 1.6 million books and 600,000 maps. The library boasts 1,300 archival collections, containing around 5 million manuscript pages. And don’t forget the 500,000 postcards and 250,000 pieces of sheet music. It truly is a feast for the curious mind. The Newberry Library houses Chicago’s only copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio, published in 1623. It also holds Thomas Jefferson’s annotated copy of The Federalist.
The library’s collections are not static relics. They are continually growing. The Newberry actively acquires and preserves materials that represent diverse perspectives, ensuring that even marginalized voices are heard. Beyond the collections, the Newberry Library is a dynamic center for learning. It offers free public programs, exhibitions, and adult education classes throughout the year. These programs delve into topics ranging from American history and culture to genealogy, maps, and performing arts.
The Newberry is more than a library. It is a community. It fosters a vibrant environment for scholars, students, and teachers alike, offering fellowships, seminars, and research centers. The Newberry Library Award, established in 1987, honors individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the humanities. This reflects the library’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating intellectual achievement. As you stand before the Newberry Library, remember that you’re not just facing a building. You’re at the threshold of a world of stories, waiting to be discovered. Step inside, and let your curiosity guide you. The Newberry Library is a place where the past illuminates the present, and where the pursuit of knowledge never ends.