The State of Connecticut State Library was established in 1854. It was created by the Connecticut General Assembly to serve as the official repository for all state publications and to provide library services to state government agencies.
The library was originally located in Hartford, but in 1910 it was moved to its current location in Middletown. The move was prompted by the need for a larger space to accommodate the growing collection and to provide better access for state employees and the public.
The State Library's mission is to collect, preserve, and make available materials that document the history and culture of Connecticut. It also serves as a resource for state government agencies, providing research and reference services, as well as training and consulting on information management.
In addition to its role as a state library, it also serves as the administrative agency for the Connecticut State Archives and the Museum of Connecticut History. The State Library is also a member of the Federal Depository Library Program, providing access to federal government publications for the state's residents.
Overall, the State of Connecticut State Library plays a vital role in preserving and providing access to the state's history and information resources for the benefit of its citizens and government agencies.
1. General Collection: This collection includes a wide range of books on various subjects such as history, literature, science, and more.
2. Connecticut Collection: This collection focuses on books related to the history, culture, and people of Connecticut.
3. Genealogy Collection: This collection includes books on family history, genealogy, and local history resources.
4. Rare Book Collection: This collection contains rare and valuable books, manuscripts, and other materials related to Connecticut and its history.
5. Government Documents Collection: This collection includes publications from federal, state, and local government agencies.
6. Law and Legislation Collection: This collection includes books on Connecticut laws, regulations, and legal resources.
7. Children's Collection: This collection includes books for children of all ages, including picture books, chapter books, and non-fiction titles.
8. Young Adult Collection: This collection includes books for teenagers and young adults, including fiction and non-fiction titles.
9. Audiovisual Collection: This collection includes DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks on various subjects.
10. Digital Collection: This collection includes e-books, e-audiobooks, and other digital resources that can be accessed online.
11. Reference Collection: This collection includes encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other reference materials for research purposes.
12. Periodicals Collection: This collection includes magazines, journals, and newspapers on various subjects.
13. Special Collections: This collection includes materials related to specific topics such as African American history, Native American history, and more.
14. Braille and Large Print Collection: This collection includes books in braille and large print for visually impaired readers.
15. Multilingual Collection: This collection includes books in languages other than English, catering to the diverse population of Connecticut.
The State of Connecticut State Library, located in Middletown, United States, is home to a vast collection of rare books, history archives, and manuscripts that are available for readers to explore and discover. These materials offer a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of Connecticut and the United States as a whole.
One of the most notable collections at the State Library is the Connecticut State Archives, which contains over 10,000 cubic feet of historical records dating back to the 1600s. These records include colonial charters, state constitutions, legislative records, court documents, and more. Researchers and historians can access these materials to gain a deeper understanding of the state's political, social, and economic development.
The library also houses a significant collection of rare books, including early printed works, manuscripts, and maps. Some notable items in this collection include a first edition of the Bay Psalm Book, the first book printed in British North America, and a copy of the Declaration of Independence printed by John Dunlap in 1776. These rare books offer a glimpse into the early days of printing and the development of literature in the United States.
In addition to these collections, the State Library also has a vast collection of manuscripts, including personal papers, diaries, letters, and other documents from notable figures in Connecticut's history. These materials provide a firsthand account of the state's past and offer valuable insights into the lives of its residents.
The library also has a dedicated Connecticut History and Genealogy Reading Room, where readers can access a variety of resources related to the state's history and genealogy. This includes local histories, family genealogies, and vital records, making it a valuable resource for those researching their family history or interested in learning more about the state's past.
Overall, the State of Connecticut State Library's rare books, history archives, and manuscripts offer a wealth of information and resources for readers to explore and discover. Whether you are a researcher, historian, or simply curious about the state's history, the library's collections are sure to provide a fascinating and enriching experience.

Services:

1. Access to Online Resources: The State Library provides access to a wide range of online resources such as databases, ebooks, and digital collections. These resources are available to subscribers and the community for research and learning purposes.
2. Interlibrary Loan: The library offers interlibrary loan services, which allow subscribers and community members to request materials from other libraries in the state or across the country.
3. Reference and Research Assistance: The State Library has a team of librarians who are available to assist subscribers and community members with their research needs. They can help with finding information, navigating databases, and using other library resources.
4. Genealogy and Local History Services: The library has a dedicated genealogy and local history department that provides resources and assistance for those researching their family history or the history of Connecticut.
5. Government Information Services: The State Library is the designated depository for Connecticut state government publications. Subscribers and community members can access a wide range of government documents and publications through the library.
6. Programs and Events: The library hosts various programs and events throughout the year, including author talks, book clubs, and workshops. These events are open to both subscribers and the community.
7. Digital Preservation Services: The State Library is responsible for preserving and providing access to Connecticut's digital heritage. This includes digitizing historical documents and making them available online.
8. Professional Development: The library offers professional development opportunities for librarians and other information professionals in the state. These include workshops, webinars, and conferences.
9. Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped: The State Library provides services for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or physically handicapped. This includes access to audiobooks, braille materials, and assistive technology.
10. Statewide Library Delivery Service: The library coordinates a statewide delivery service that allows subscribers and community members to request materials from any library in the state and have them delivered to their local library for pickup.

Things To Do:

1. "Connecticut Authors and Their Works" Exhibition: This exhibition showcases the works of Connecticut authors and their impact on literature. It includes rare books, manuscripts, and other materials from the library's collection.
2. "Women's Suffrage in Connecticut" Exhibition: In honor of the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage in the United States, this exhibition explores the history of the suffrage movement in Connecticut and the role of women in shaping the state's political landscape.
3. "Connecticut's Native American Heritage" Exhibition: This exhibition highlights the rich history and culture of Connecticut's Native American tribes through artifacts, photographs, and documents from the library's collection.
4. "Connecticut's Industrial Revolution" Exhibition: This exhibition explores the impact of the Industrial Revolution on Connecticut's economy and society through photographs, maps, and other historical materials.
5. "Connecticut's Civil War" Exhibition: In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, this exhibition examines the role of Connecticut soldiers and civilians in the war through letters, diaries, and other primary sources.
6. "Connecticut's Literary Legacy" Exhibition: This exhibition celebrates the literary achievements of Connecticut authors, including Mark Twain, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Wallace Stevens, through rare books, manuscripts, and other materials.
7. "Connecticut's Historic Maps" Exhibition: This exhibition showcases the library's collection of historic maps of Connecticut, including early maps of the state, town maps, and maps of important events and landmarks.
8. "Connecticut's State Symbols" Exhibition: This exhibition explores the symbols and emblems that represent the state of Connecticut, including the state flag, seal, and bird, through photographs, documents, and other materials.
9. "Connecticut's Folklore and Legends" Exhibition: This exhibition delves into the rich folklore and legends of Connecticut, including stories of ghosts, witches, and other supernatural beings, through books, photographs, and other materials.
10. Book Reading Events: The library regularly hosts book reading events featuring local and national authors. These events provide an opportunity for readers to meet and interact with their favorite authors and learn more about their work.

1. Respect the library's rules and regulations: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the library's policies and follow them while you are there. This includes rules about noise levels, food and drink, and use of electronic devices.
2. Keep your voice down: Libraries are meant to be quiet spaces for studying and reading. Be mindful of your volume when talking to others or on the phone.
3. Handle materials with care: Books, magazines, and other materials in the library are meant to be shared by everyone. Treat them with respect and avoid damaging or marking them.
4. Return materials to their proper place: After using a book or other item, make sure to return it to its designated spot. This helps others find what they need and keeps the library organized.
5. Use headphones for audio: If you are listening to music or watching a video on your device, make sure to use headphones. This will prevent disturbing others around you.
6. Be considerate of others: Remember that the library is a shared space. Be mindful of others around you and avoid disruptive behavior.
7. Keep personal belongings with you: Do not leave your personal belongings unattended in the library. This can be a safety hazard and may also inconvenience others.
8. Use designated study areas: Many libraries have designated quiet study areas for those who need a quiet space to work. Make use of these areas if you need a distraction-free environment.
9. Avoid bringing in strong scents: Some people may be sensitive to strong scents, so it is best to avoid wearing strong perfumes or bringing in strongly scented items.
10. Be aware of library closing times: Make sure to check the library's closing time and plan your visit accordingly. It is important to leave the library on time to allow staff to close up and go home.

The State of Connecticut State Library offers a variety of subscription plans for individuals and organizations to access its resources and services. These plans include:
1. Individual Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for individuals who wish to access the library's resources and services for personal use. It includes access to the library's online databases, e-books, and e-journals, as well as borrowing privileges for physical materials.
2. Institutional Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for organizations such as schools, universities, and businesses that wish to provide their members or employees with access to the library's resources and services. It includes access to the library's online databases, e-books, and e-journals, as well as borrowing privileges for physical materials.
3. Library Consortium Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for library consortia that wish to provide their member libraries with access to the State Library's resources and services. It includes access to the library's online databases, e-books, and e-journals, as well as borrowing privileges for physical materials.
4. Interlibrary Loan Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for libraries that wish to borrow materials from the State Library's collections for their patrons. It includes access to the library's physical collections, as well as the option to request materials through interlibrary loan.
5. Digital Collections Subscription Plan: This plan is designed for organizations that wish to access the State Library's digital collections, including historical documents, photographs, and maps. It includes access to the library's digital collections and the option to download and use these materials for educational or research purposes.
To learn more about these subscription plans and their pricing, please visit the State of Connecticut State Library's website or contact the library directly.

The State of Connecticut State Library in Middletown, United States is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm. It is closed on weekends and major holidays.

The State of Connecticut State Library in Middletown, United States can be easily accessed by public transport. Options include bus routes and train services, with multiple stops within walking distance of the library. Plan your trip using the local transit authority's website or app for convenient and affordable travel.