His son, Cass Gilbert Jr. was a partner with Francis Keally in the design of the library's additional wings added in 1963.

Property near Woodward and Kirby was purchased and in 1912 Cass Gilbert was commissioned to construct his design of a three-floor, early Italian Renaissance-style building.

[10] As part of the addition, a triptych mural was added to the west wall of Adam Strohm Hall on the third floor.

The mural by local artist John Stephens Coppin is entitled Man's Mobility and depicts a history of transportation.

September 16, 2014, former chief administrative and technology officer Timothy Cromer was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a $1.5 million kickback scheme.

"[14][15] The Detroit Public Library offers users books, magazines, records, CDs, videos, DVDs, and electronic materials through access to subscription databases.

The library also offers practical advice to Detroiters through their TIP service, short for The Information Place.

Librarians and support staff have access to a TIP database and offer free community information and referral service on matters such as food, housing, transportation, financial aid, legal advice, education, counseling, health care and family support.

The library, which has a collection specializing in books written by African-Americans, is located on Harper Avenue, in proximity to Dickerson Street.

As of 2009[update], the interior is decorated with artwork from children living in the area and portraits of notable African-American people.