We are thrilled to announce an exciting and momentous occasion – the 150th Anniversary of the Akron-Summit County Public Library! Since its inception in 1874, our library has been a community pillar, fostering a love for learning, knowledge, and culture. To commemorate this remarkable journey, we have planned exciting events and initiatives to bring our community together and honor our rich history.
A Conversation with Carla Hall
Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Akron Civic Theatre
Celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Akron-Summit County Public Library with "A Conversation with Carla Hall." Join us for an inspiring and delightful evening featuring renowned chef, Food Network personality, and author Carla Hall. This event is a unique opportunity to hear Carla's insights, stories, and experiences while supporting the Akron-Summit County Public Library.
All proceeds from this fundraising event will support the Akron-Summit County Public Library's mission of providing exceptional resources, programs, and services to our vibrant community for 150 years.
VIP tickets include a post-event photo opportunity with Ms. Hall and a signed copy of Carla Hall’s Soul Food: Everyday and Celebration.
VIP Tickets: $125
General Admission tickets: $30-$75
Purchase tickets: Akron-Summit Library Presents: A Conversation with Carla Hall Tickets Oct 30, 2024 Akron, OH | Ticketmaster
Community Read: A Shared Literary Experience
From September through November 2024, community members are invited to participate in a shared reading experience on the theme of “Where We Live.” The Library has planned book discussions, writing workshops, and art programs to foster the exchange of ideas and perspectives as we celebrate 150 years of service and community.
Library Passport: Discover the Libraries of Summit County
One of the exciting initiatives we launched is the year-long Library Passport program. We encourage all library enthusiasts to embark on a journey across Summit County by visiting all our library locations. Share your experiences on social media using #ASCPL150 to connect with fellow adventurers and document your progress. Collect stamps and earn prizes along the way, and once you've visited them all, you'll be eligible for a special commemorative gift. It's a fantastic way to explore the diverse resources and communities that make up our library system. The program launched on Monday, March 18, 2024, and will run through March 29, 2025.
Commemorative Library Cards and Tote Bags: Local Artistry Meets Library Passion
In celebration of our 150th anniversary, we are proud to introduce limited-edition commemorative library cards and tote bags featuring the stunning artwork of two talented local artists, Lizzi Aronhalt and April Couch. Their creations beautifully capture the essence of our library and its deep roots in the Akron-Summit County community. The limited edition Library cards will be available to library patrons as a token of appreciation for their continued support. The tote bags and a commemorative mug featuring a list of all of our library locations are available for purchase at all library locations.
Anniversary-Related Programs: Branch Libraries Join the Celebration
Our celebrations won't be confined to the Main Library. Each of our branch locations will host a variety of anniversary-related programs, ensuring that the entire community can participate in the festivities. From author talks to exhibits and programs, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
History of the Library
As we celebrate the Akron-Summit County Public Library’s Sesquicentennial, we look back at its history through Margaret Neumann Dietz’s book, Akron's Library: Commemorating Twenty-five Years on Main Street, published in 1994 to commemorate Main Library’s 25th anniversary at this location.
The Grand Gala
On Saturday, June 29, 2024, the Library welcomed over 350 guests for a memorable celebratory Sesquicentennial Gala at the Main Library. The evening was filled with live music, delicious cuisine, and a wonderful opportunity to reminisce about the library's journey over the past century and a half. Highlights of the night included a silent auction featuring signed books by some of our favorite authors. It was a night to remember as we honored our past and looked forward to a bright future. Thank you to our sponsors and everyone who joined us and made this event a grand success!
Sesquicentennial Gala Sponsors
Platinum Prologue Patron Sponsors
Golden Page Turner Sponsors
Silver Literary Luminary Sponsors
- Akron Energy Systems, LLC
- Brennan Manna Diamond
- Robert & Laura Culp
- Robert J Events
- GPD Group
- Midwest Tape
- OverDrive
- PNC Bank
- The Ruhlin Company
- S.A. Comunale Co., Inc.
- Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board
- Todd & Bernett L. Williams
Bronze Bibliophile Benefactor Sponsor
- Akron Community Foundation
- Associated Underwriters Insurance
- Sandra & Bruce Bailey
- Dr. Tami Bolder
- Cleveland Clinic Akron General
- Brant T. Lee & Marie B. Curry
- David & Ann Otto
- Heather Otto
- The Richard & Alita Rogers Family Foundation
- SeibertKeck Insurance Partners
- Sikich LLP
- Jeff Stevenson & Pam Hickson-Stevenson
- Wealth Impact Advisors
- Women for Greater Akron Charities
For more information about the Library’s Sesquicentennial celebration, please contact Development Director Michael Derr at