Since 1828, nine years before Michigan achieved statehood, the Library of Michigan has served state government and the people of Michigan much as the Library of Congress works at the federal level. The Library's early task was to collect, compile and store Michigan territorial laws and other important documents that formed the basis for Michigan government today. As the state's population grew, the Library assumed additional roles and responsibilities to support the information needs of libraries and citizens alike.
The Library of Michigan History Collection contains images and documents that chronicle the library's significant 193 year history.