The Esper Branch Library is located at Warren and Hartwell, deep in the heart of Dearborn's Arabic community. Although the smallest of the branches, it is an important informational resource for the community.
Originally called the Warren Branch, the Esper Branch replaced the old Northeast Branch that had occupied a crowded storefront on Warren Avenue since 1944. The branch was dedicated on October 12, 1953. The first branch supervisor was Miss Opal Ziemer. Three other staff members assisted her, one of who still works for the Department of Libraries. The Warren Branch was renamed to honor Anthony M. Esper in October 1961. Mr. Esper had been a Dearborn councilman for 24 years, as well as serving as the Treasurer of Springwells Township. Also, the Esper Family had once farmed the land that the Esper Branch now occupies.
Esper Branch Library contains about 35,000 items in varying formats. Besides books, Esper also houses a fine collection of music CD's, entertainment and educational videocassettes, audio books, children's music cassettes, and popular magazines. Daily newspapers are available for reading at the library. Due to the large population of Arabic speakers in the neighborhood, Esper also has many Arabic language books, as well as some Arabic language videocassettes, and Arabic language newspapers.
Family programming is a strong focus at Esper Branch. In winter, spring and fall, there are weekly story times for preschool children. About once per month there is a craft program for older children. Every month there is a guessing contest with prizes for children from 1-13. Several times per year there are late afternoon and evening programs designed to appeal to all members of the family from the younger ones to the parents. While school is out children can keep on reading by joining the Summer Reading Program. Teens can wile away the summer months by participating in the Teen Read Program. Be sure to check out the events calendar, telephone or stop by to see what is planned.
The staff at Esper Branch Library is available to help you find the answer to any questions you might have or find that book that you need to read. If you are looking for information for school or recreation, the staff at Esper Branch Library will be happy to welcome you.
Esper Branch Library is not affiliated with AmericanTowns Media
