Wilmington Public Library, Delaware

The Wilmington Public Library, also known as the Wilmington Institute Free Library,^[1] is in Wilmington, Delaware. It received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. Books on its opening, history, and holdings have been published.^[2] It is at 10 East 10th Street.^[3] The library is in the Rodney Square Historic District.

Postcard

Wilmington Library Company was founded in 1788.^[4]

Originally established as a private lending library, Wilmington Institute became a free public library known as Wilmington Institute.^[5] It was built on the site of First Presbyterian Church, which relocated, and its cemetery.^[6] Designed by Edward L. Tilton and Alfred Morton Githens, a library building was constructed for it from 1921-1923. Interior alterations were made form 1969-1971.^[7]

A book truck was photographed outside the library in 1929.^[8]

In 2024, Al Roker and his daughter were speakers at the library.^[9] Michael Vick's scheduled appearance at the library in February 2025 was controversial.^[10]

See also

• Timeline of Wilmington, Delaware
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Wilmington, Delaware