Mar 3, 2023 - News

📚 Library celebrates 150th anniversary

Tyler Buchanan

The Columbus Metropolitan Library has 23 locations, including this one in the Hilltop that opened in 2021. Photo: Tyler Buchanan/Axios

It all began on March 4, 1873, as a single reading room inside the old City Hall building.

A full 150 years later, the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) system now has 23 locations serving readers all over Franklin County.

Driving the news: CML is celebrating the anniversary this Sunday with birthday bashes at most locations.

The intrigue: The first CML library predates the current state fairgrounds, the Horseshoe, Schmidt's meat packing business and even the name "Ohio State University."

In 1901, steel magnate Andrew Carnegie donated $200,000 toward building the Main Library, which still stands today.

Be smart: These days, CML offers far more than borrowing books.

You can also "check out" free passes to local attractions like the Columbus Zoo, Franklin Park Conservatory and even Clippers baseball games.

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📚 Library celebrates 150th anniversary

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