Celebrate Blackstone's Anniversary with a Commemorative Card

In June of 1896, the Blackstone Library first opened its doors to the public. Since then, the library has provided essential access to resources, information, and unique shared experiences. This year, the James Blackstone Memorial Library is celebrating 125 years of engaging, informing, and empowering the Branford community.

To mark this important milestone, the library has created two new library card designs, showcasing the history and beauty of the library building. These new limited-edition cards are now available to new and existing library card holders.

The Construction Card features a photo of the copper dome being lifted and placed by an early model crane. The Dome Card features a photograph of the interior of the rotunda dome, which is embellished with large paintings that depict the evolution of bookmaking. These panels were painted by well-known artist Oliver Dennett Grover (1860-1927). The next time you visit the Blackstone, be sure to take a moment to lift your gaze to the dome, inside and out!

Get Your Card Today

September is national Library Card Sign-Up Month, so it’s a great time to stop by the library and sign up for your free card, choosing from one of the two designs while supplies last. Blackstone Library cards are free and available to Branford residents.

You may also sign up for a new library card online at bit.ly/getlibcard and begin placing holds on items right away. When you come to the library to get your physical card, you can choose a preferred design.

If you already have a library card and wish to replace it with one of these commemorative designs, you may do so. Replacement cards are $1.

Questions? Call the Blackstone at 203-488-1441 x 318 or email reference@blackstonelibrary.org.