Many bibliophiles have dreamed about what it would be like to live in a library.
Now they can.
The historic 19th century Michigan City Public Library has entered its next chapter as luxury apartments after a three-year renovation project.
The original Michigan City library was crafted with Indiana limestone and opened in 1897. It's been transformed into the Casa del Libri apartments that feature five apartments and a 12-foot-high Tiffany-style stained glass window that depicts the Rosalind, Portia and Ophelia characters from William Shakespeare's plays.
Developer Bernie DelGiorno spearheaded the years-long renovation at Eighth and Spring Streets in the Elston Grove Historic Neighborhood.
“I think the biggest impact of the project is the fact that the library was opened to the public in 1897 as a pillar in the rich history of Michigan City. It has sat effectively vacant since the art center moved out decades ago,” Bernie DelGiorno said. “By transforming the property into residential apartments, it revitalizes a once-forgotten work of art that can now be enjoyed by full-time Michigan City residents.”
The druggist George Ames and the railroad magnate John H. Barker helped bankroll the original library, which cost $30,000 to build. He put up a third of the cost and Michigan City residents raised funds for the rest of the expense.
The library was inscribed with "public library built by the people for the people of Michigan City" and originally had a collection of 3,000 books for checkout.
People went there to read, learn and check out books for decades until the library outgrew its original space in the 1970s. It opened a mall branch in the old Marquette Mall and then opened its current public library at 100 E. 4th St. that was designed by the world-renowned architect Helmut Jahn. The innovative glass and steel structure won many honors, including the Distinguished Building award from the Chicago Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
“Reviving the former library into livable space truly bridges the past and the future as we honor our city’s foundation with new housing options,” Economic Development Corp. Michigan City Executive Director Clarence Hulse said. “Casa del Libri or ‘house of books’ encompasses a celebration of history along with a modern vibe for luxury apartment living.”
The original Michigan City library was transformed into a community arts center but has been vacant for years.
“We look forward to creating a unique community of residents all living under one historic roof,” DelGiorno said.
© Copyright 2025, nwitimes.com, Munster, IN