Member Spotlight
About The Main Library
Columbus Metropolitan Library is nationally recognized as one of the premier library systems in the United States. In 2010 it earned the distinction of National Library of the Year. Main Library is the original building of what is now a 21-location system throughout Franklin County.
In 1903 a $200,000 gift from Andrew Carnegie provided the funding for Main Library, which was built on a site formerly occupied by the Governor’s Mansion. The building opened to the public in 1907. Four additions were made to the building, most recently in 1991.
Main Library hosts close to 1,000 children’s and teen programs each year as well as art exhibits, music concerts, genealogy workshops and orientations to business, grants and careers research.
Like all CML locations, Main Library has a Homework Help Center, providing homework assistance to students after school and a Job Help Center providing help with basic computer instruction, job applications and resume building.
Main Library has more than 100 computers for customers of all ages. These computers provide Internet access, resume and typing tools, access to the library’s extensive collection of premium databases and learning programs for young children.
Main Library hosts annual events such as Celebration of Learning (the library foundation’s annual fundraiser), a Friends of the Library book sale every fall, and the Huntington Holiday Train from late November through early January.
Columbus Metropolitan Library has 479,000 cardholders and circulates 16.5 million items per year. It also has 8 million customer visits.
Managers:
Bonnie Chandler
Genealogy, History and Travel
Chuck Cody
Arts, Media and Fiction
Jay Kegley
Science Business and News
Marjorie Robertson
Information Line
Martha Lund
Center for Discovery
Nick Tepe
Circulation
Main Library Director Nate Oliver
About the Building
The 418,800 sq. ft. building, constructed of Vermont marble and granite, was funded by Andrew Carnegie and opened in 1907. Constructed in Roman classic style, a major expansion and renovation was completed in 1991.
