Permanent Exhbits
Amelia Valerio Weinberg Memorial Fountain
Amelia Valerio Weinberg Memorial FountainThe Amelia Valerio Weinberg Memorial Fountain is located on the Vine Street Plaza in front of the Main Library. Conceived and executed by former Cincinnati sculptor Michael Frasca, this ornamental fountain was made possible by a bequest from Mrs. Weinberg and was dedicated in 1990. Affectionately known as the “book fountain,” the sculpture features water cascading over a stack of ceramic tile books, representing the free flow of information and ideas through the printed word. The fountain is a popular spot for school groups and tourists.
Historic Stained Glass Windows
Three beautiful and intricate stained glass windows that graced one of the reading rooms in the original (1874) Main Library building have been restored to their original glory and are on permanent display. Learn more…
Louise Nevelson Sculpture
“Sky Landscape II”The 8th & Walnut Street entrance to the Main Library is flanked by “Sky Landscape II,” a major public sculpture by world-renowned artist Louise Nevelson (1899–1988). The 3,800-pound, 20-foot tall painted steel sculpture was relocated to the library on January 8, 1993. It had been given to the City of Cincinnati by Federated Department Stores (now known as Macy’s), who had commissioned the piece in 1980 for the entrance to their 7 West Seventh Street headquarters.
Honoring Our Veterans
The Veterans’ Memorial display case, located in the Atrium of the Main Library, recognizes the sacrifice and contribution of local veterans and showcases our collection of veterans’ memorabilia.
Temporary Exhibits
Rivalries, Championships and Legends: 100 Years of Cincinnati High School Football
Held in conjunction with the newly released book Cincinnati Schoolboy Legends by John Baskin and Lonnie Wheeler, the exhibit Rivalries, Championships and Legends: 100 Years of Cincinnati High School Football, highlights our community's rich football heritage.The exhibit includes memorabilia from local high schools, including photographs, trophies and autographed helmets, yearbooks, programs, letter sweaters, and pennants. A sample of some of the items from the exhibit is available on our Virtual Library. The exhibit will be on view in the Cincinnati Room at the Main Library from October 24, 2009 through January 24, 2010. More detailed information about the exhibit, related videos, and an upcoming program is available here.
The Nutcracker
A collection of objects from the Cincinnati Ballet’s past performances of “The Nutcracker,” including costumes, props, photographs, and promotional materials, will be on view in the Atrium of the Main Library until January 4, 2010. These items illuminate the story of “the most famous and extravagent ballet adventure in the world,” as well as provide an inside look at Cincinnati Ballet’s various productions of the ballet.
