Happy 75th Birthday, Golden Gate Bridge!

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From brass bands to fireworks, big celebrations are in store this weekend for the Golden Gate Bridge's 75th anniversary. The Golden Gate Bridge has become a symbol of San Francisco, loved by locals and visitors alike, and the San Francisco Public Library is no exception. There are many programs and exhibits at the library in commemoration of this grand event.

• The Bridging Minds: San Francisco Reads, 1933-1937 exhibit currently on display outside the San Francisco History Center is a glimpse into the reading habits of San Franciscans at the time the Bridge was being built.
• On Location: the Golden Gate Bridge on the Silver Screen is a program by Jim Van Buskirk that highlights the Bridge in clips from feature films. There are several screenings taking place at various branches.
• Golden Gate: The Life and Times of America's Greatest Bridge by Kevin Starr is the current On the Same Page pick. Kevin Starr will be at the Main Library to discuss his book on Tuesday, June 19th 6:30 p.m. in the Koret Auditorium.

 Of course, there is plenty to see and read about the Golden Gate Bridge at the San Francisco History Center, as we tend to celebrate San Francisco and its famous (and not so famous) landmarks all year 'round.

Headlines from The San Francisco News, May 28, 1937. From the San Francisco History Center Ephemera files: SF. Bridges. Golden Gate. Opening Day. Newspaper Clippings.

Commemorative wooden postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge. Courtesy of the San Francisco History Center, SFPL.

Reverse side of commemorative wooden postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge.



Newscopy: "Gay shouts fill the air as Mayor Angelo Rossi applies an acetylene torch to the silver chain across the bridge at the San Francisco-Marin County line. Timothy Reardon, state director of industrial relations (right) adds his voice to the din of gay celebrants." May 27, 1937. Courtesy of the San Francisco Historical Photograph Collection.

"Authentic San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge Paint" can. Courtesy of the San Francisco History Center, SFPL.

Golden Gate Bridge ticket books, 1962-1963. Courtesy of the San Francisco History Center, SFPL.