170 Main Street

The Danbury Public Library sits at the corner of Main and West Streets, at the heart of CityCenter. This was formerly the site of City Hall, and was known as City Hall Plaza until 1968, when residents approved bond issues for a new City Hall on Deer Hill Avenue, a new public library where City Hall once stood, fire headquarters and additional schools. I like the classic styling with the portico and full-height columns that immediately tell us where the entrance is. This building is proud to be situated on Main Street, as well it should be.

In 1996 a fire destroyed most of the interior of the library. It was closed for renovations for six months and reopened to the public in September of the same year, with new furnishings, a new local history room, and new meeting space. In May of 1998, the Technology Center was added in the space over the adjoining Union Savings Bank branch to house twenty general purpose public computers, ten computers used for free self-directed instruction in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and a conference room. Free computer classes are offered here each month.

Now known as Library Plaza, the plaza was recently renovated with a new fountain, new seating, and new landscaping, and draws the visitor in from every direction. The rear entrance was enhanced by the addition of more parking spaces and a beautiful butterfly garden. If you haven't visited for a while, you're in for a lot of pleasant surprises.

I think it's one of the best libraries in Connecticut, but I'm a little biased. If you'd like a peek at the interior, there are more photos here.