By: Lorette Feivelson In 1886, a free public library had been high on New Haven’s wish list for some time. New Haven was quickly growing and becoming a thriving city and it was believed that a city of its size should have a public library. Other cities of similar size had started to build libraries of their own, including Bridgeport, Connecticut, which opened its own public library in 1881. New Haven’s role as a college town also played a role in the decision to create a public library. It seemed odd that the city that was home to one of the most prestigious universities in the country had not already invested in a library to educate its citizens. Of course, New Haven did not lack libraries before this point. Yale had its own library with an impressive collection that more than met the needs of its students. Outside of the university there were several private subscription libraries throughout the city, including on at the Young Men’s Institute. These libraries had plenty of m...

Elm Arcade, Temple Street, New Haven, Connecticut And who, that ever, on a Sabbath morn, Sent through this leafy roof a prayer to Heaven. And when the sweet bells burst upon the air, Saw the leaves quiver, and the flecks of light Leap like caressing angels to the feet Of the church-going multitude, but felt That here, God's day was holier--that the trees, Pierced by these shining spires, and echoing ever "To prayer!" "To prayer!" were but the lofty roof Of an unhewn cathedral, in whose choirs Breezes and storm-winds, and the many birds Join'd in the varied anthem; and that so, Resting their breasts upon these bending limbs, Closer, and readier to our need they lay-- The spirits who keep watch 'twixt us and Heaven. --Nathaniel Parker Willis, excerpts from "Elms of New Haven" (1841)