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Trip Planner:   USA  /  Illinois  /  Atlanta  /  Atlanta Public Library

Atlanta Public Library, Atlanta

4.8
#104 of 137 in Historic Sites in Illinois
Architectural Building · Hidden Gem · Historic Site
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The Atlanta Public Library, located at the intersection of Race and Arch Streets in Atlanta, Illinois, was built in 1908 and has operated continuously as a library since. Architect Paul A. Moratz's design combines the Neoclassical with an octagonal plan, an uncommon mixture of styles. The building's eight sides are all symmetrical except for the front, which is broken by a classical portico with Doric columns and a round arched entrance. The library is topped by a red tile roof.
Atlanta's public library program began in 1873. When the city built its library building in 1908, it did so through community support rather than receiving a grant from the Carnegie Foundation as most other communities did at the time. A clock tower was added to the property in the 1970s. The Atlanta Museum formerly operated in the library's basement.
The library was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 11, 1979.
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Atlanta Public Library reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
10 reviews
Google
5.0
TripAdvisor
  • While it’ll only take a few minutes to stop by and see this location, the Atlanta Public Library is one of those obscure sights worth taking that extra moment to see. The library was originally built....  more
    While it’ll only take a few minutes to stop by and see this location, the Atlanta Public Library is one of those obscure sights worth taking that extra moment to see. The library was originally built....  more »
  • I stopped at the library and then walked all over the little town to see all the Route 66 sites. The library is cool and there is a few historical markers around it. Across the street is a little... 
    I stopped at the library and then walked all over the little town to see all the Route 66 sites. The library is cool and there is a few historical markers around it. Across the street is a little...  more »
Google
  • An architectural treasure in Atlanta, Illinois. A beautifully designed octagon public library by architect Paul Moratz. Built in 1908, Moratz was also responsible for designing at least 11 other libraries in the midwest. Now mainly a museum, the library interior is attractively planned and wonderfully remains much as it looked in 1908. Gorgeous. I really like this diminutive edifice! A must visit location.
  • Beautiful traditional American building and stoned clock tower, at a small park with elegant gardens and beautiful trees, at the town of Atlanta. There are labels at the park with historical information related to the library and the clock tower.

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