There’s something both eerie and bizarrely beautiful about exploring an abandoned building. While we certainly do not recommend trespassing in order to scope out the defunct sites that call Detroit home, we’re always fascinated by photos and footage from within these locales. One such spot is especially unique, offering a sad reminder of days gone by and pointing to an unfortunate slice of Motor City history.

The Detroit Public Schools Book Depository, also referred to as the Roosevelt Warehouse, stands at the corner of 14th and Marantette in Detroit.
Wikimedia Maps
If you’re a bookworm, you might want to look away as we explore what sits inside this defunct structure. There’s something strangely melancholic about seeing piles of discarded books.
Flickr/Sean Munson
The building itself was opened in 1926, originally serving as a post office for the Motor City. It is believed to have been designed by Albert Kahn, a well-known industrial architect.
Wikimedia Commons/junkyardsparkle
After its stint as a post office, the structure served as a surplus building for supplies from Detroit Public Schools - this included textbooks, art tools, sports equipment, and more.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk

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Following a devastating fire in 1987, the building was simply left abandoned without a book or supply retrieval effort. Today, the structure still stands as a reminder of the past.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
Urban explorers have found their way into the former depository over the years, wading through almost-surreal heaps of paper, documents, and never-read titles.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
While recent efforts to renovate the area have resulted in the removal of many supplies and books, there’s still a mysterious vibe to be found around the former Roosevelt Warehouse.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
For educators, students, and book-lovers alike, the sight of this abandoned Detroit book warehouse serves as a stark reminder of the sanctity - and fragility - of our city’s education system.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk

Have you checked out any of Detroit’s abandoned buildings throughout the years? While we don’t promote trespassing in any form, we’d love to hear more about your personal experiences in the Facebook comments. Or, to recommend another interesting spot in the Motor City, click here and fill out our official nomination form.

Looking for another glimpse into the past? Check out this history-rich park near Detroit.

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