Newsletters and Press Releases

September 9, 2026

It is said that music transcends age and time. Young, up-and-coming musicians like those from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance prove that the age aspect of this sentiment is true of both music itself and its performers. The talented student musicians will demonstrate this truism on Friday, September 18, as they thrill audiences with stirring performances of chamber music pieces during a Chamber Music Concert at Bloomfield Township Public Library.

The concert is the first in a series. The pieces to be performed will be released in the days leading up to the performance and will be posted on the Library’s website.

“The Library has partnered with U of M’s School of Music, Theatre, and Dance for over a decade to bring these Chamber Music Concerts to the community each year,” said Katherine Dupuis, Assistant Library Director. “The students are truly amazing, and the performances are always beautiful and moving. We could not be more delighted to host this series again this season.”

No registration is required for the free concert that will be performed at the Library at 7:00 p.m. All ages are welcome, bearing in mind that the Chamber Music Concerts are intended for a thoughtful and attentive audience. Accessibility accommodations are available and can be made by contacting the Library at least 24 hours before the event at (248) 642-5800.

September 5, 2026

The greater Metro Detroit area has been inextricably linked to automobiles since Henry Ford introduced the Model T in 1908. Though automobiles have become increasingly integral to our daily lives, they have never sold themselves. The program, Advertising Detroit Style – The Story of Car Illustration, will explore the fascinating stories and images behind the high-level advertising art that has influenced generations of car enthusiasts.

During the program, participants will get an insider’s look at the evolution of the artwork that revved up demand for Detroit’s most noteworthy makes and models. Program presenter and automotive advertising photographer Jim Secreto will also share some of the most interesting and beautiful original artwork created by the Detroit advertising community from his extensive private collection.

“For over 100 years, automobiles and the art connected with them have defined who we are as a region,” said Katherine Dupuis, Assistant Library Director. “This program is a rare opportunity to see firsthand the artistry of the auto industry across decades.”

The free, adult program is jointly sponsored by Bloomfield Historical Society and Bloomfield Township Public Library as part of the Local History Program Series. It will be presented at the Library on Sunday, September 20, from 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. No registration is required. Accessibility accommodations are available and can be made by contacting the Library at least 24 hours before the event at (248) 642-5800.

For additional program information, contact the Assistant Library Director by email at dupuiska@btpl.org or by calling 248.642.5800, ext. 114.

August 24, 2026

September is back-to-school time, but you do not have to be going back to school to bring some new-to-you books into your life. On Saturday, September 12, people of all ages can discover a broad range of wonderful sections at the Friends of the Bloomfield Township Public Library Second Saturday Sale.

With thousands of books and audiovisual materials for all ages and interests conveniently sorted into more than 50 categories, as well as a room dedicated to music and film, the monthly sale offers something for everyone. Debit cards may be used for purchases in any amount. Credit cards may be used with a $5 minimum purchase.

The walk-in event will be hosted on the lower level of the Bloomfield Township Public Library from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Members of the Friends group may shop the sale early from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. For those who are not yet members, memberships can be purchased at the door on the day of the sale.

The book sale will be held on the day the Library reopens after its temporary two-week closure to prepare the building for the Library Renovation Project.

During the sale, an additional selection of gently used books, movies, and music, as well as cards and gifts, will also be available for purchase in the Library Shop. The Library Shop is open during regular Library hours and is located inside the Library.

Both the Second Saturday Sale and the Library Shop are supported by book donations from the community. Donations are accepted by the Friends year-round. Visit the Friends of the Library webpage for more information.

Since 1995, proceeds from the Second Saturday Sales have allowed the Friends to donate over $1.85 million to support the Library beyond its operating budget, with over $105,000 donated last year alone. Donations from sale proceeds have paid for artwork and sculptures around the Library, the beautiful gardens, programs and events for adults and children, and additions to Library collections.

August 18, 2026

It can beautify public spaces, commemorate people or events, or express a community’s personality or distinctiveness. While public art can do all these things, it is also subjective. Bloomfield Township Public Library’s upcoming program, “What We Talk About When We Talk About Public Art,” seeks to explore the many questions around public art and its purpose.

What is art and who is it for? How does art enhance the public realm? During the program, speaker Max Grinell will address these questions and discuss the role of public art in American cities. Attendees will also discover how public art shapes our understanding of urban spaces and how different public art projects can truly be exercises in community building and consciousness-raising.

Grinnell is an urbanologist and author who has worked with the American Institute of Architects, the Chicago Public Library, the Newberry Library, the city of Chicago’s Cultural Affairs Department, Frommer’s, Fodor’s Travel + Leisure, Boston University, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Chicago.

“Public art is all around us. It’s here at the Library in the form of sculptures and wall art, and it is at museums, gardens, and public spaces throughout the township, county, and state,” said Laura J. Kraly, Head of the Library’s Adult and Teen Services Department. “While we see public art frequently, we often don’t think about its purpose or meaning. This program will help participants consider public art on a different level and better understand its value to the community.”

The free, adult program will be presented at the Library on Thursday, August 27, from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Registration is required.

August 3, 2026

Bloomfield Township Public Library is not only a welcoming place ripe with print and digital resources and programs for all ages. It is a place of beauty. This is especially true during the summer months when the gardens are in bloom. This August, the Library is offering two opportunities to tour its beautiful and bountiful gardens.

Tour participants will join landscape designer and horticulturalist Jim Slezinski from Goldner Walsh Garden and Home for a guided tour of the Library gardens and terraces. During the tour, Slezinski will explain the flowers, plants, trees, and shrubs and talk about their history.

The adult-focused Library Garden Tour will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, and Thursday, August 20. Tour content will be the same on both dates.

Bloomfield Township Public Library is home to 13 unique garden spaces of varying sizes in addition to a rich greenscape of different tree species that surrounds the multi-acre Library.

The beauty of the Library’s gardens is undeniable. As one patron recently put it, “They just keep getting better and better. They are such a treat for all who visit.”

Registration is required for this free and popular program, which fills up quickly each year. For more information, please call the Library at (248) 642-5800.