The collection is not designed for browsing but is well indexed in our Delaware index and card catalogs. We also have a clipping file of News Journal articles that are indexed in the Delaware index mentioned above. Although the earliest volume in the collection is the city directory of 1853, a more complete collection begins in the 1880's. The collection is not complete but is quite extensive. Our collection of early Delaware maps is kept in the reference department.
Maps show Delaware from colonial times to present.
Our maps are indexed in our card catalog and patrons can search by geographic area and time period. The extensive AfricanAmerican Collection of books, video and audio cassettes was presented to the Library in 1989 by the Civil Rights Commemorative Commission and the Wilmington City Council in honor of the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Bill. All materials are available for circulation in the Audio-Visual Center. Back to the Top History There is evidence, in the form of a hand written receipt for dues, that the earliest Wilmington Library was first incorporated in 1754. It is further believed that there was a hiatus in service due to inadequate funds during the Revolutionary War.