Springfield, Ill. (WICS) — Lincoln Library invites the community to celebrate a major milestone on Monday, February 2nd — the 140th birthday of Springfield’s public library! The celebration will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Carnegie North, and the public will be encouraged to stop by at any point during the day.
Guests will enjoy cake, the opening of the 1976 cornerstone time capsule, and a continuously looped slideshow showcasing the rich history of the library and its enduring role in the Springfield community. The event offers a relaxed, open-house-style opportunity to reflect on the library’s past while celebrating its ongoing mission of learning, access, and connection.
Springfield Public Library was established by city council in 1886, laying the foundation for more than a century of public service. In 1904, the opening of a new building funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie marked a new chapter, and the institution became known as Lincoln Library, a name it proudly carries today.
This anniversary celebration honors 140 years of stories, discovery, and community connection, and highlights the library’s continued commitment to serving Springfield residents of all ages.
For more information, visit Lincoln Library or stop by Carnegie North on February 2nd to be part of the celebration or contact Lana Shovlin, Lincoln Library’s Public Relations Manager, at [email protected] or 217.753.4900 ext. 5639