Wilmington Public Library, Wilmington

The Wilmington Public Library was originally incorporated in 1754, attesting to which is a handwritten receipt for dues. However, due to the Revolutionary War and the ensued lack of funds, the library service was temporarily ceased until 1788 when the it was reinstated with the help of John Dickinson, Jacob Broom and Gunning Bedford, the three prominent Delawareans who were the original signers of the U.S. Constitution.

The early Library was located at the residence of the Librarian. As the size of the collections grew, the Library quarters likewise expanded. The Town Hall was its primary site until 1861 when the John Dickinson Mansion at 8th and Market was razed and a new building was constructed to meet the needs of the Library in 1899.

During the early 20th century, when the Library began to once again feel the need for more space, Pierre S. du Pont spearheaded a campaign to provide a larger building and improved services. He donated the property for the current building, chaired the art committee which supervised the architectural development of it and headed the campaign to raise funds for the new building. Mr. du Pont was also instrumental in attracting the support of public funds for the new Library.

The current location of the Wilmington Public Library was dedicated in 1922 and remained physically unchanged until 1970 when the interior was extensively renovated.

The fascinating Library building is a massive white-gray edifice designed in the Neoclassic style by renowned architects Alfred Githens and Edward Tilton. The symmetrical façade is decorated with prominent Ionic pilasters, garlands, a terra-cotta frieze with Egyptian motifs, and narrow grilled windows.