Rosenberg Library

Unknown-4.jpeg

The Rosenberg Library, established in 1900 and built a few years later, is the oldest continuously operating library in Texas. That fact, plus the high level of service and resources the library provides, is a source of great pride for the citizens of Galveston, so much so that most locals are library-card carrying fans and frequent visitors. Me included!

Admittedly, I didn’t make it over to the library as soon as I had hoped, but when I did go, I was duly impressed and eager to look around (on all floors) and get a library card of my own. At the same time, I asked about book clubs, special events, etc. Again, I was impressed. The offerings here are amazing!

This statue of Henry Rosenberg is positioned at the entrance of the Rosenberg Library. It is a fitting tribute to the generosity and legacy of this Galveston businessman and philanthropist.

This statue of Henry Rosenberg is positioned at the entrance of the Rosenberg Library. It is a fitting tribute to the generosity and legacy of this Galveston businessman and philanthropist.

The folks working at the front desk were great. All were friendly and very knowledgeable. They seemed to enjoy answering my many questions. So, I couldn’t help myself. I asked a lot of them - especially about the history of the library and its namesake.

I learned a lot!

For example, the funding for the Rosenberg Library Association was provided via a bequest from Galveston businessman and philanthropist Henry Rosenberg. The association was organized on July 10, 1900, as a private corporation to give free library service to all the residents of Galveston. The building itself was dedicated on June 22, 1904, the birthday of its patron.

When the Moody Memorial Wing opened in 1971, it more than doubled the floor space and allowed for a children's library, a history center, several galleries to showcase museum collections and, later, a computer lab.

The Rosenberg Library is located at 2310 Sealy Avenue. For current information about its hours of operation and upcoming special events, please visit www.rosenberg-library.org/.