Cleveland Masonic Library

Books and Books and Books and Books and Nostalgic Memorabilia
The Source For Exciting Lodge Programs

The Library provides

Open the Door To Masonic Culture

Thousands of books are available covering Masonic history and philosophy. Proceedings of the Masonic Grand Bodies of Ohio and many other states provide remarkable historical allocution. Subjects are classified by computer for easy reference and location.

Recently-published popular Masonic books may be purchased for personal libraries. There is also a selection of used Masonic books for sale.

Several Masonic video tapes are now available which can be viewed at the library or borrowed for showing.

Fine Lodge Programs

The Masonic Library has several speakers who can present exciting programs in open or tyled lodge meetings. Program Partners has been developed by the staff to help Lodge officers research their own special programs.

Historic aprons, jewels, medals, coverings, convention souvenirs, photographs etc. fill the display cases of the Masonic library. Many have interesting stories connected with them.

The Cleveland Masonic Library is one of the finest in the country. It is supported by the Scottish Rite, Valley of Cleveland, and contributions from lodges and other Masonic organizations in northeast Ohio.

For Over A Century...

In 1987 the Cleveland masonic Library celebrated its 100th anniversary. It was started as a study group in the early temple at East 6th and Superior by Brenton D. Babcock who donated a collection of books which formed the nucleus of the library.

The first programs were small study groups that were organized by Babcock and grew over the years. The collection of Robert Ingham Clegg, eminent masonic scholar, was added a little later. Along the way, the library started to receive memorabilia of prominent masons. Display cases are dedicated to John W. Barkley, William R. Pringle, Philip H. Coad, and several other local masonic giants.

A well-organized clipping file is maintained as librarians continually review masonic publications, magazines, and newspapers from the United States and several foreign countries.

The Cleveland Masonic Library is directed by a board of local recognized Masonic Leaders. it is supported by contributions from individuals, groups, masonic bodies and temples. Memorial and estate assignments to this nonprofit organization help to perpetuate the library.

For a small one-time fee a Master Mason may become a life member of the library. This entitles him to the full facilities of the library including borrowing books.

A Lodge may become a member of the Library. This provides for every member of the participating lodge to be recognized as a member of the library.

Come in and browse. A well-versed librarian is always on duty to cheerfully assist.

The Library is open to all masons and friends during posted times. Appointments can be made to open the library at other times. Messages may be recorded on the answering machine at any time.