By Hailey Stangebye

Nearly 50 years ago in 1969, Martin Luther King Sr. cut the ribbon and revealed the first public library named in honor of his son and civil rights icon, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Today, we know that library as the MLK branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library.

On the eve of the 50th anniversary of that momentous occasion, the MLK branch will move to a new and improved facility.

To commemorate the new location, the oldest son of Martin Luther King Jr., Martin Luther King III, will dedicate the library to his father — just as his grandfather dedicated the original library to his son 50 years prior.

The dedication and grand opening will take place on Thursday, Oct. 18 from 3:30 to 6 p.m. at the new location on 1467 E. Long St. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, as well as dedication remarks from Martin Luther King III.  

In addition to the grand opening festivities on Thursday, the new MLK library will also host a community open house on Saturday, Oct. 20 from noon to 3 in the afternoon. There will be entertainment, activities and refreshments, as well as a sign-up for a commemorative library card.

“This new 21st century library represents a reinvestment in the Near East Side community,” Patrick Losinski, Columbus Metropolitan Library CEO, says. “We’re so excited to cut the ribbon, open the doors and continue Dr. King’s legacy of promoting equal access and uplifting our communities.”

“This new 21st century library represents a reinvestment in the Near East Side community. We’re so excited to cut the ribbon, open the doors and continue Dr. King’s legacy of promoting equal access and uplifting our communities.”

This new MLK branch will be more than double the size of the previous space, spanning approximately 18,000 square feet. The amenities will include: an interactive children’s area, a Ready for Kindergarten area, a Teen area, a Homework Help Center (where students can access free after-school resources), meeting rooms, an elevated reading loft and, of course, a breathtaking collection of books.

For more information on the dedication, grand opening, community open house or the library in general, click here.

By Hailey Stangebye

Photos by Kenny W.

Every person became an artist at the Harlem Renaissance Children’s Mural Event on Saturday, August 25. 

Maybe it’s more accurate to say that each passerby discovered an inner artist who was present all along. With a little inspiration, paint and opportunity, the community brought an image of Martin Luther King Jr. to life.

Harlem Renaissance Children’s Mural Event from Warhol and WALL ST. on Vimeo.

Children and parents alike picked up paint brushes to contribute to a larger-than-life portrait of Martin Luther King Jr. By the end of the morning, the painting was complete.

The initial sketch, which was used as a guideline for the painters, was created by local artist Marshall Shorts.

In addition to the mural, children also had the opportunity to color in specially-made coloring books. Each page introduced one of the heroes of the Harlem Renaissance.

The completed mural will remain on display at the the MLK library branch. Not only does it honor Martin Luther King Jr., it also serves as a reminder of this moment in time when the community came together to create something beautiful.

Follow us at @CbusHarlem100 for information on upcoming events!