CLEVELAND,OH, April 25, 2025: Don’t be late—Cleveland Public Library is celebrating a very important date! Join us on Saturday, May 10, 2025 as we mark the 100th anniversary of Main Library with a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-themed celebration. This milestone event is part of a yearlong commemoration of Main Library’s centennial.
The Library’s centennial celebrates a series of exciting updates in and around the historic Main Library building—including the unveiling of a historical marker honoring its architectural and cultural legacy, the debut of a newly enhanced TechCentral department, and the grand opening of The Library Shop, featuring library- and Cleveland-themed gifts.
In 1916, Cleveland Public Library launched a national design competition to create a Main Library worthy of a growing, modern city. Designed by renowned Cleveland architects Walker and Weeks, the building opened to the public on May 6, 1925. The Ohio state marker will recognize Cleveland Public Library’s trailblazing influence in librarianship, status as one of the largest research libraries in the United States, and continued role as “The People’s University” for generations of Clevelanders.
“This isn’t just a centennial celebration,” said Felton Thomas Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “It’s a vibrant tribute to how far the Library has come—as a place where culture, community, and creativity come alive. It’s a joyful reminder that imagination and learning belong to us all.”
On May 10, guests of all ages are encouraged to step through the looking glass and dress as their favorite literary character while exploring exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities throughout the day. Visitors will collect passport stamps and keepsakes as they explore an Alice in Wonderland pop-up exhibit, DIY crafts and puzzles, family-friendly programming, and laser engraving stations. Special exhibits such as “Alice in All Languages,” “Library Love Letters,” a historical photo wall, and The Ballet of Joy performance from The BAND will bring the magic to life.
Also ready for unveiling is the next chapter of the Library’s downtown TechCentral department. In addition to computers with free access to Wi-Fi and over 100 research databases and learning apps, the upgraded TechCentral will build on the popularity of its makerspace with even more state-of-the-art equipment, including sewing machines, an embroidery machine, a recording studio, and more space for people to create.
Library lovers can support their favorite library system by shopping at The Library Shop in The Arcade. The new gift shop will feature pieces of Cleveland Public Library’s vast collection as well as branded merchandise and a rotating assortment of Cleveland-centric and bookish themed gifts from local vendors like socks, candles, handbags, used books, and more. All sales will be invested back into the Library, supporting programs you know and love.
Learn more about the 100th anniversary of Main Library and The Curious Garden Party at CPL.org/Main100.