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Old Library Museum

About The Old Library Museum

An iconic piece of Old Newcastle architecture, the Old Library is a well preserved Victorian structure housing classics and law books through the 19th century. 

The multipurpose historic building served as a school library for the Academy students in the first half of the 1800’s, eventually becoming a public subscription-based library following World War I and a free public library by the 1940’s.

Today, while the library no longer serves its book-lending purpose, you can still tour the interior and observe the rotating exhibits on local history through the ages and view a faithful recreation of former library amenities.

Tours:
Exhibits are available for self-guided tours throughout the year. Availability dependent on New Castle Historical Society discretion.

Logistics:
On street parking is available throughout the Historic New Castle area.

Hours:
Contact the New Castle Historical Society at (302)322-2794 for details on exhibits and hours.

Admission:
When open to the public, Old Library admission is free with no tickets required.

Getting Here:
Address: 40 E 3rd St, New Castle, DE 19720
Find on Google Maps

Fun Facts

  • The library was designed by famed architect Frank Furness, who designed other iconic Delaware landmarks such as the Recitation Hall at the University of Delaware and the Wilmington Train Station.
  • Paint analysis has revealed that the rich reds, browns, and greens of the library are a near-perfect representation of the building’s original Victorian coloring.
  • From 1965 to 1979, sculptor Maurine Ligon lived and sculpted in the Old Library. Maurine was famous for her bronze busts, and also for being buried alongside her dog.

Know Before You Go

The building’s historical architecture may be challenging for people with physical disabilities.

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