Northville District Library Serving Northville since 1888
Dr. Mary E. Lapham played a foundational role in establishing the Northville District Library in Northville, Michigan. In 1889, she was appointed chair of a newly formed library committee by several local church societies, a group that became the Ladies’ Library Association. She donated the first 250 books—forming the core of the library’s collection—and eventually deeded a building to the association with the stipulation that the Northville Woman’s Club would always have space there. Under her leadership, the library opened in January 1890 on Main Street and later moved into the New School Church building on Wing Street. Even after she left Northville to pursue her medical career, her legacy endured: in 1904, the Ladies’ Library Association officially named the library building the Mary E. Lapham Library. Her early vision and generous contributions created the local and intellectual foundation for what would grow into the Northville District Library on Cady Street.
1888 - YMCA opens free reading room for young men, later that year the Northville Circulating Library was formed with 100 books donated by citizens
1889 – Ladies Library Association incorporates under chairperson Miss Mary Lapham, who donates 250 books
1890 – Library opens on second floor of McKeand Building ($1/year subscription)
1892 – 200+ members borrow 115 items each week
1895 – Library moves into New School Church building
1899 – Dr. Mary Lapham deeds the building to the Ladies Library Association with one condition
1926 – Librarian hired for 35¢/hr
1934 – Wayne County takes over
1955 – City and Township lend financial support
1964 – Library moves to City Hall
1972 – New School Church moves to Mill Race Historical Village
1975 – Library moves into MAGS building (on former Church site)
1979 – Voters approve bond issue. Library moves to Community Center
1980 – Library returns to City Hall
1992 – Becomes District Library
1994 – Voters approve Cady Street project with funding in perpetuity
1996 – Library opens in current location
2018 – Addition constructed for meeting rooms and study space
