Postcard, "Flushing Library and Community Building, Flushing, MI," circa 1943

Until the 20th century, most book collections were not available to everyday Americans. They were often privately owned or accessible only by paid subscription. Where community libraries existed, books were rarely stored in dedicated buildings. The Flushing, Michigan, library collection was once held in a rented room, the upper floor of a local bank, and a wing of this former church.