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Discover early 19th-century Lexington in this four-panel traveling exhibit created by the Mary Todd Lincoln House. Images and text illustrate city life, the economy, schools and churches, and arts and leisure during the years Mary Todd lived in Lexington (1818-1839). Text is written for ages 12-up. Free.
The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers traveling exhibit developed and shared by Keeneland Library, highlights the lives and careers of 100 African American horsemen and -women from the mid-1800s to the present. One-of-a-kind photographs from Keeneland Library collections capture moments across their varied careers, while biographical vignettes honor their lasting legacies.
From racetrack superstars to behind-the-scenes caretakers, The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers showcases select stories of the countless African Americans who forged their way in Lexington and beyond from the era of slavery to the present, making the racing industry what it is today.
When Hollywood auctioneer Emsley
Wilson finds her famous grandmother's diary
while cleaning out her New York
brownstone, the pages are full of surprises.
The first surprise is, the diary isn't her
grandmother's. It belongs to Johanna
Bonger, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law.
Johanna inherited Vincent van Gogh's
Lexington Public Library is proud to host the 2026 Kentucky History and Genealogy Conference. This conference brings together historians, genealogists, researchers, and enthusiasts to explore the rich history and genealogical heritage of Kentucky.
Celebrate Black History Month at LPL
Throughout February, join us as we celebrate Black history with programs, materials, podcasts, and more.
Meet the Lexington Public Library's Board, Administrative Team, and Leadership Team. Apply to work or volunteer at the library.
Stories of Lexington's history told through the Kentucky Room archives.
Library meeting rooms are available for individuals, non-profit, for profit, study groups, and community organizations seeking to hold meetings, trainings, and workshops. Meeting rooms are free of charge. Sterno and other tools/equipment that have an open flame are prohibited.
Lexington's school system dates back to the city charter of 1831, and it first school opened in 1834.
Celebrate Lexington, Kentucky’s 250th anniversary all year long. Join us for programs, galleries, podcasts, and more highlighting our city’s history, heritage, and legacy.