Central Library (Portland, Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Central Building, Public Library
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 Location in Portland, Oregon
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| Location | 801 SW 10th Avenue Portland, Oregon |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1913 |
| Architect | A. E. Doyle |
| Architectural style | Georgian style |
| NRHP reference No. | 79002129 |
| Added to NRHP | June 11, 1979 |
The Central Library is a large public library in downtown Portland, Oregon. It has three stories and opened in 1913. This library is the main branch for the Multnomah County Library system. The building is designed in the Georgian style. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The library had big updates inside during the mid-1990s.
History of the Central Library
The Library Association of Portland started in 1864. For about 50 years, the library moved to different places. In 1911, the library board decided to build a new, big main branch. This new library would be in downtown Portland.
The famous architect A. E. Doyle designed the building. The Central Library opened its doors on September 6, 1913. It was special because it was one of the first libraries in the United States to have an open plan inside. This meant the rooms were more open and connected. Building the library took two years and cost $480,000. Librarian Mary Frances Isom also helped with the design ideas.
The Central Library became a historic place on June 11, 1979. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On July 1, 1990, the Library Association of Portland gave ownership of the library to Multnomah County. Before this, the association owned the books and buildings. But the local government paid for the library's daily work.
From 1994 to 1997, the library had a big renovation. The entire roof was taken off and rebuilt. Parts of the inside were also updated. While the library was being fixed, all the books were moved to another building. This way, people could still use the library's collection.
What's Inside the Library?
The Central Library is built in the Georgian style. This style is known for its balanced and classic look. The main staircase inside the library has 92 steps!
You can find interesting artwork here, like "Tree of Knowledge" by Dana Louis. The outside walls are made of Wilkinson Sandstone. Inside, you'll see a lot of beautiful marble and wood. The library has about 125,000 square feet (11,600 m2) of space. This is spread out over its three floors.
The library has special sections for different interests. It is home to the Beverly Cleary Children's Library. This area is perfect for younger readers. There is also the Henry Failing Art and Music Library. Other cool spots include the Sterling Room for Writers and the Collins Gallery. The John Wilson Room is another unique space. On the first floor, the U.S. Bank Room is a small meeting room that anyone can use.
The library's huge collection of books and materials weighs more than 875 tons. These items fill about 17 miles (27 km) of shelves. That's a lot of books! There are also 130 computers available for public use.
Images for kids
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The Library Association of Portland's 1893 library, on Stark and Broadway.
