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The first Milwaukee Public Library art acquisition, Francis Lydston's portrait of Sidney Rood reflects the origins of the Milwaukee Public Library more than 125 years ago. Likely received in 1878 with 10,000 volumes from the library of the Young Men's Association which formed the basis of the Milwaukee Public Library Collection, the portrait also establishes a link between the Milwaukee Public Library and the tradition begun by the Young Men's Association library.
The subject, Sidney Rood, was a bookstore and bindery owner and librarian with the Young Men's Association, of which he was a lifelong member. Rood also served on the Common Council, School Board, and as treasurer for the Old Settlers Club. He was also a supporter of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Milwaukee Public Library collections help tell the history of all of these important local institutions and government bodies.