Rose and Robert Skillman Branch
🏢 Detroit Public Library — Detroit, Michigan
Rose and Robert Skillman Branch
Downtown Detroit's 1932 library on Gratiot Avenue, home to the National Automotive History Collection — the nation's premier public archive of automobile history.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 121 Gratiot Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 481-1850
Website: detroitpubliclibrary.org
📖 About Rose and Robert Skillman Branch
The Skillman Branch opened on January 4, 1932, as the Detroit Public Library's Downtown Library, designed by the prominent Detroit firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls in a Classical style with Art Deco touches. After closing in 1998, it was restored with a five-million-dollar gift from the Skillman Foundation and reopened on December 1, 2003, renamed in honor of Rose and Robert Skillman. Standing at 121 Gratiot Avenue near Library Street in the heart of downtown, it serves as both a neighborhood branch and the home of a nationally important research collection. The Skillman Branch houses the National Automotive History Collection (NAHC), regarded as the nation's premier public archive documenting the history and development of the automobile and other wheeled land transportation, with photographs, books, manuscripts, service manuals, and journals. As of 2026 the branch is temporarily closed for renovations including window, roof, HVAC, and exterior work; visitors should confirm current status and NAHC appointments before coming.
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Home of the National Automotive History Collection, the nation's premier public automotive research archive
- Opened in 1932 as Detroit's Downtown Library, designed by Smith, Hinchman & Grylls in a Classical style with Art Deco touches
- Renamed for Rose and Robert Skillman after a Skillman Foundation gift funded its 2003 restoration
- Downtown location at 121 Gratiot Avenue, near Library Street
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the branch called the Skillman Branch?
It was originally the Detroit Public Library's Downtown Library, opened in 1932. Following a major restoration funded by a gift from the Skillman Foundation, it reopened in 2003 renamed the Rose and Robert Skillman Branch in the family's honor.
Where can I research automotive history at this library?
The Skillman Branch houses the National Automotive History Collection, considered the country's leading public automotive archive, holding photographs, books, manuscripts, service manuals, and journals. Access is by appointment, which should be arranged several days in advance.
Is the Skillman Branch open right now?
As of 2026 the branch is listed as temporarily closed for renovations, and reporting suggests it may stay closed into 2027. Call (313) 481-1850 before visiting, and note that National Automotive History Collection access is by advance appointment even when the branch is open.