Newsletters and Press Releases

February 19, 2025

The Friends of Bloomfield Township Public Library will hold their Second Saturday Book Sale Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friends members may shop the sale early from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and memberships can be purchased at the door on the day of the sale.

The sale takes place on the lower level of the Library and includes thousands of books and audiovisual materials for all ages and interests, conveniently sorted into more than 50 categories. Highlights of this sale include needlecraft—knitting, crocheting, and embroidery, along with a mini feature of paperback books in Chinese. The sale always includes a wide array of subjects, and a room dedicated to music and film.

Debit cards can be used for any amount, and credit card purchases may be used with a $5 minimum purchase. 

The Library Shop, located just inside the Library, remains open during Library hours, and offers a selection of gently used books, movies, and music, as well as cards and gifts. The Friends are also continuing to accept donations of books and media in good condition. Visit the Friends of the Library webpage for more information.

Since 1995, purchases made at the Second Saturday Sales have allowed the Friends to donate over $1.85 million dollars to support the Library beyond their operating budget, donating over $105,000 last year alone. Donations have paid for artwork and sculptures around the Library, the beautiful gardens, programs and events for adults and children, and additions to Library collections.

February 18, 2025

Bloomfield Township Public Library is pleased to host the lecture Dangerous Experiment with Michigan history expert and educator Susan L. Nenadic, Monday, March 10 at 7 p.m.

The great issue of the 19th century was not suffrage but education. Advocates of women’s suffrage, such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton, were educated women. Michigan’s Washtenaw County boasted not only many co-ed high schools but the nation’s first normal school west of the Alleghenies. The University of Michigan became a pioneer by admitting women in 1870 and became the foremost university to do so. A university degree allowed women to enter the professional working world and rise to prominent positions in both the state and nation. Presenter Susan L. Nenadic explores the challenges women faced in accessing education during this transformative period.

“We are thrilled to host Ms. Nenadic for this important lecture, which shines a light on the challenges and pivotal moments in history—when access to and the pursuit of education was an extraordinary struggle for women. The University of Michigan’s decision to admit women was a monumental step that opened doors to opportunities that continue to shape our world today,” said Latonia Phillips, Adult &Teen Services Librarian.

Registration for this program is required.

February 12, 2025

Bloomfield Township Public Library and the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance are pleased to announce the next chamber music concert which will be held Friday, February 28 at 7 p.m. Program details will be available from the Library closer to the concert date. Other dates in the series are:

• Friday, March 28, 7 p.m.
• Friday, April 11, 7 p.m.
• Saturday, April 12, 3 p.m. (new addition)

The concerts are free and open to everyone. No registration is required. We invite you to join us for a beautiful evening of music in the Library.

The concert series is sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomfield Township Public Library.

February 4, 2025

Bloomfield Township Public Library is proud to present the following Detroit-centric author talk programs:

The Library and the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan are pleased to co-present an evening with the Honorable Gerald E. Rosen (Ret.), author of Grand Bargain: The Inside Story of Detroit’s Dramatic Journey from Bankruptcy to Rebirth on Sunday, February 23 at 2 p.m. As the architect of the “Grand Bargain”—the landmark deal that helped to preserve the city’s invaluable assets, including the Detroit Institute of Arts’ priceless collection—Judge Rosen will reflect on the extraordinary process that brought the city back from the brink of collapse. Books will be available to purchase. Registration for this event is required at jhsmichigan.org.

Journalist John Gallagher discusses his new book, Rust Belt Reporter: A Memoir on Tuesday, February 25 at 7 p.m. as he reflects on his 32 years reporting for the Detroit Free Press. His stories describe the ups and downs of Detroit’s unique history as well as an inside look at the local newsroom. Books will be available to purchase. Registration for this event is required at btpl.org or by calling 248-642-5800.

“We are thrilled to host two remarkable local authors this February, offering our community a chance to dive deep into Detroit’s history and transformation. John Gallagher’s memoir will give a unique, firsthand perspective on the city’s evolution, while Judge Rosen’s insights into the ‘Grand Bargain’ showcase the incredible resilience of Detroit and its cultural treasures. These events are a wonderful opportunity to learn from two individuals who have witnessed and shaped the city’s journey,” said Laura J. Kraly, Adult and Teen Services Department Head.

January 30, 2025

Bloomfield Township Public Library will host Greg Black, a local film enthusiast and video producer, on Tuesday, February 18 at 7 p.m.as he presents his annual Oscars Preview. The year in film is discussed through the lens of the year’s Best Picture nominees, offering insights for cinephiles and casual viewers alike. Trailers for all Best Picture nominees will be screened and presented, followed by a Q&A. Registration for this program is required.

Thank you to the Friends of the Bloomfield Township Public Library for generously sponsoring this event.