October, 1964

BECPL 173 2.3 - Central Library near completion, mid-1964.jpg

Vermont marble and Minnesota granite (red and green) was quarried especially for the library's facade.

On September 8th, 1964, the Lafayette Square entrance of the new Central Library was opened for public use. As with any momentous achievement, considerable preparation was made for an appropriate ceremony. Three days of events were scheduled--On Thursday, October 15th, the auditorium hosted its first event; a chamber music concert conducted by Alexander Schneider. Tours of the new building were scheduled on Friday, October 16th, followed by an evening reception provided by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. The formal dedication began October 17th, and would mark the formal beginning for a new era in public libraries in the Buffalo & Erie County area. 

Dedication Program, October 16th and 17th. 

  • Dedication Ceremony, Oct 17 1964.jpg

    Dedication ceremony of Central Library, view from above

  • Library Dedication Ceremony, Oct. 17, 1964.jpg

    Seated crowd from rear, Central Library dedication ceremony

  • Library Dedication Ceremony, Oct. 17, 1964 [Lt. Gov. et al].jpg

    Malcolm A. Wilson, Lieutenant Governor, at podium, Central Library dedication ceremony.

‹›

Pamphlet detailing the departments and layout of the new Central Library building.

  • 2.33r [History].jpg

    View of History department with staff in background

  • 2.33w [Display area 3, ROK].jpg

    Display area.

  • 2.33v [Display area 2, ROK].jpg

    Alternate view of display area.

  • 2.33t [Corridor 1st floor].jpg

    Corridor facing west, display area.

  • 2.33s [General Information].jpg

    General information area.

  • 2.33q [Childrens Dept.].jpg

    Children's area.

  • 2.33p [General Information].jpg

    General information.

  • 2.33l [Teachers Room].jpg

    Teacher's room.

  • 2.33j [1st floor Smoking Lounge].jpg

    First floor smoking area.

  • 2.33i [Rare Books].jpg

    The Rare Book Room.

  • 2.33h [Tech Dept].jpg

    Technology department.

  • 2.33g [Lounge, Admin. area].jpg

    Administration section.

  • 2.33c [Lit and Education].jpg

    Literature and education.

  • 2.33b [Music Dept.].jpg

    Reference area for music department.

‹›

October, 1964