Special Collections at ASCPL

We're making it easier for you to stay connected! 🧡

Starting June 1, all of the ASCPL branch and division accounts are coming together under one account: Akron-Summit County Public Library .

That means more stories, more events, and more of what you love - right here in one place.

Make sure you're following along.

Have you ever wondered what Main Street in Akron looked like in the 1920s? Here we have a postcard from 1928 showing a bird’s eye view of Main Street. Notice the streetcars and the future home of the Dime Savings Bank.

From the Special Collection Divison of the Akron-Summit County Public Library. Digitized image online at: https://www.summitmemory.org/digital/collection/photos/id/957/rec/1

Are you trying to find a particular address for a relative or business from Akron’s past? The Special Collections Division has a collection of historic city directories for you to use. While you can view the directories in person at Main Library, we also have PDF copies of the directories available on our website. Akron City Directories from 1859 to 1969 are available to view at: https://www.akronlibrary.org/locations/main-library/special-collections/genealogy/historic-city-directories

Today is St. Patrick’s Day! Here we have a photograph of nine-year-old Helen Fay Diehl in her celebratory costume for St. Patrick’s Day in 1927. Helen performed Irish songs, dances, and recitations at the Akron Rotary Club that year.