George Bruce Library is an example of the importance and relevance libraries are to the communities they serve. They have become epicenters to the people who visit their branches every operating day. 

The George Bruce branch of The New York Public Library will be 100 years old this year. 

Did you know that this is not the original location of the George Bruce Library? 

It's true. It was originally housed along 42nd Street. In 1877, Catherine Bruce donated $50,000 for a library to be built and books to be furnished in memory of her father. The library was completed in 1888, but sold in 1915. The funds of that sale were used to construct its current building location.  

The building underwent a renovation in 1999, housing a temporary trailer which offered modified library services. George Bruce reopened to the delight of the community in 2001, with one major addition which the previous building lacked… an elevator. 

Did you know that George Bruce was one of the earlier innovators of fonts? 

Well, sort of. He partnered with his brother David, and together they became successful in creation of typeface, a set design for characters. It was George who would become the innovator and leader in typography. Typography would evolve into fonts. These fonts would grow and mature into what now utilize in everyday computing. 

In a way, George Bruce's legacy is still evident after all these years. From the typeface of the books housed in the building bearing his name. To the computers within the branch, where users can select the type of fonts used for documents onscreen. It all goes back to his tenacious work of the past. 

To celebrate, we are holding a Centennial Celebration at the branch on Tuesday June 2, 2015.

Come in and celebrate with the staff and various members of the community as we ring in 100 years of service.  And of course, commemorate the generous gift his daughter left to New Yorkers... the George Bruce Library.