Postcard, "Public Library, Detroit, Mich.," circa 1915

Until the 20th century, most book collections were not available to everyday Americans. They were either privately owned, accessible only by paid subscription, or stored away haphazardly. For communities with dedicated public library buildings (often among the most imposing structures in town), they were sources of civic pride. Built to house the Detroit, Michigan, library, this structure opened in 1877.