The Kalamazoo Ladies' Library Association was the first women's club organized in Michigan and the third in the nation. Members held meetings in various places around the village between 1852 and 1879, when local builder Fred Bush constructed the present LLA building. Built and furnished at a cost of $14,000 (and paid in full by 1883), this was the first building erected and owned by a women's club in the country. It is now recorded both as a State Historic Site and a National Historic Landmark. It features ornamental ironwork, limestone, decorative tiles, and stunning stained glass windows. The Ladies' Library Association preserves and displays classic and rare books on the walls of their main library room, along with works of art including paintings, statuary, and more.

Tours available upon request.