Centuries of Service

Since 1828, nine years before Michigan achieved statehood, the Library of Michigan has served the state government and the people of Michigan as the single largest source of information about the state. The Library's earliest  task was to support the information needs of early government officials and collect, compile and store Michigan territorial laws and other important documents that formed the basis of Michigan's government today. As the state's population grew, the Library assumed additional roles and responsibilities to support the establishment of libraries across the state, contributing to an informed citizenry. 
The Library of Michigan History Collection contains images and documents that chronicle the library's significant 196 year history.

Storylines

There are several significant themes that have impacted the growth and development of the state library's collections and services throughout its nearly two century history. Explore the storylines below to discover insight into this institution's unique history.