Our mission
The Connecticut State Library is a gateway to lifelong learning for all residents and visitors, inspiring a shared and informed future through our diverse, historic, and cultural resources.Our Services
The Connecticut State Library is an independent and non-partisan Executive Branch agency of the State of Connecticut. Founded in 1854, the State Library is home to the State Archives, Office of the Public Records Administrator, Museum of Connecticut History, the Division of Library Development and the Connecticut Library for Accessible Books, and three reference departments (History & Genealogy; Law and Legislation; and Government Information). Through these units, the agency provides a variety of archival, public records, museum, library, information, and administrative services.Open to both residents and users beyond state borders, the State Library serves the employees and officials of all three branches of state government, students, teachers, researchers, town governments, and anyone seeking information within its collections. In addition, as the administrator of the Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the State Library amplifies the capacity of public, school, academic, and special libraries across the state with a suite of library development opportunities.
Our Collections
The State Library curates many resources, from public records and research to history, genealogy, and more. We also host the largest collection of state newspapers and administer the Connecticut Documents Depository program. Discover the many ways we support and inspire researchers.See a List of Our Collections
Inside Connecticut State Library
Take a virtual tour of Connecticut State Library.Frequently asked questions
Get a CSL Library Card and Use or Borrow Materials
Get a library card and learn more about the benefits.
Visit the State Library in Hartford
Visit the state library in Hartford.
Hours and Locations
Find hours and locations for all library facilities.
Contact Us
Have a specific question? Chat or email us today.
History of Connecticut State Library and Supreme Court Building
In 2004, the Connecticut State Library celebrated 150 years of service to the people of Connecticut. To honor this milestone, the State Archivist and other staff created an online exhibit. This exhibit celebrates the construction of the Connecticut State Library’s current home in Hartford. This is a portion of that exhibit.
Photographic History of the Connecticut State Library Building
A Photographic History of the Connecticut State Library and Supreme Court Building Part 1, 1908-1910
Library Catalog record will also give online access. Conn Doc St292 pepho
Additional Resources :
- A Photographic History of the Connecticut State Library, 1854-1909 compiled by Nancy Peluso. 16 unnumbered leaves : color illustrations. Print copy: StLib Conn Doc St292 peph c.2
- Newspaper Articles Mentioning the Connecticut State Library compiled by Nancy Peluso. Photo reproductions of miscellaneous newspaper articles on a wide variety of subjects, each mentioning the Connecticut State Library. Contents: pt. 1. 1943-1965–pt. 2. 1966-1992 Print copy : StLib Cage Conn Doc St292 near
- General Description of the New State Library and Supreme Court Building – Hartford, Conn. : The Library, 1909 StLib Cage Conn Doc St292b no. 4
- History of the Connecticut State Library – a more detailed guide, with additional resources.
CSL Building History 1908 - 1910
A photographic history of the Connecticut State Library and Supreme Court Buildings Part 1.
CSL Building History - Architectural Details
A photographic history of the Connecticut State Library and State Buildings Part 2 1908 - 1910.