Lois I. Richmond / Judy Sherrod / Deborah M. Killarney
The Ladies' Library Association building on South Park Street has been a noted feature of downtown Kalamazoo since its construction in 1878-79. It is known as the first building in the nation to be financed and built by and for a women's organization. Almost a century later it was the first structure in the city to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building reflects the influence of European architecture. Today its fine architecture and carefully preserved furnishings offer the community a window into the past. Careful renovations have preserved the historic character of the site, which is now barrier-free. The group sought to create a building worthy of their goal of "promoting moral and educational improvement in the town of Kalamazoo." Chicago architect H.L. Gay created an elaborate design in the fashionable Venetian Gothic style appropropriate for fine public buildings. Local builder Frederick Bush was hired to rerect the building for $8,000. Once the shell was completed, the club raised another $2,000 to pay for a tiled vestibule, stained-glass work, a stage, and scenery. Furnishings were provided through the generosity of LLA members and friends. The total cost of the building and furnishings was $14,000. Since 1852, the LLA has carried out its commitment to serving the Kalamazoo community, especially its women and children.