James J. Hill, was a creator of businesses, railroads, banks, trusts, and mansions. In 1912, he set to work on one more creation—a gift to the people of St. Paul. Hill died in 1916 before his dream—the James J. Hill Reference Library—opened in 1921. For visitors and patrons, entering the lobby and continuing through the glass-paneled French doors into the reading room never failed to impress. The marble floors and large study tables with leather chairs and ornamented study lamps filled the room’s center, as did books, on every level. The library included collections of rare tomes, papers, artwork, and artifacts. It was frequented by executives working on novel ideas, researchers, art aficionados, university scholars, tech firms, and high school students. In later years, it doubled as an event venue for fundraisers and weddings. It was a cornerstone in the community, but the world slowly changed, technology changed, research needs and capabilities changed. Funds dwindled. Some staff and board fought to stay true to Hill’s original mission, while other leaders attempted to adapt to the times and circumstances. The institution closed in 2019. In 2021—its centennial year—a developer purchased the building. Now, the Hill Library is but a chapter in St. Paul’s history book.
PDF of E. McCormack article
Supplemental information:
RCHS_Fall 2021_Online Supplement_Letters to the Hill Librarians
RCHS_Fall 2021_Online Supplement_Hill Library Images