East Lansing Public Library

Early years The East Lansing Public Library originated in 1923 when the Child Conservation League (later known as the East Lansing Child Study Club) sought to provide books for children at the Bailey School. The women of the organization raised an initial fund of $26 through a community dance and obtained two boxes of books on loan from the Library of Michigan. In 1928, the City of East Lansing made its first appropriation of $1,500 for the library, allowing the hiring of the first professional librarian at a salary of $41.67 per month. The local architectural firm of Manson, Jackson and Kane designed the new 12,000 square foot facility, which was dedicated on April 21, 1963. In 1975, voters approved a $550,000 bond issue to finance a 9,000 square foot expansion. The addition, also designed by Manson, Jackson and Kane, provided space for children's programs, enlarged staff workspace, and a new community meeting room. A further renovation in 1995–1998, funded by a $2 million bond approved by voters, completely renovated the interior and updated mechanical systems. == Architecture ==

The library building is an example of Mid-century modern architecture. The structure is raised on a platform several feet above the adjacent parking area, with a long brick retaining wall dividing the site. The main entrance features a two-story, limestone-clad entry bay recessed beneath a dramatic saw-tooth, metal-panel roof. Clerestory windows beneath the roof admit natural light and create the impression that the roof is floating. A patterned metal screen shields the two-story aluminum window wall from direct sunlight. The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office has recognized the building as part of the Michigan Modern project, which documents Mid-century modern architecture in the state. The library's design has been compared to Marcel Breuer's Grosse Pointe Public Library, built ten years earlier. == Art ==

The library's foyer features the Michigan Folklore Mural, painted by East Lansing artist and illustrator Dirk Gringhuis in 1963. The mural depicts various folkloric characters including Paul Bunyan and his blue ox Babe. Gringhuis, who received training at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, wrote and illustrated numerous books on Michigan history. == Services ==

The library offers a Maker Studio where patrons can use equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and sewing machines. Other services include a local history room, children's programming, book groups, and digital resources. == See also ==