Library History

From Community to Carnegie Library

During a 4th of July picnic in 1899, a group of ladies from the Coterie Club sold lemonade and ice cream to the townspeople. They raised $200 from this event, which they used to purchase the first collection of books and establish the Woodward Public Library. 

The library was located in various buildings, with each member of the club taking turns serving as the "librarian." As Woodward began to grow, city officials became interested in the library. Eventually, the Coterie Club sold its assets to the City of Woodward for $190, which was the total amount donated by the members to establish the library.

In 1917, a new building was completed at 1217 8th St. with a $10,000 donation from Andrew Carnegie.

The Library Today

The library was located on 8th Street until 1988. The City of Woodward then purchased an old post office building and renovated it to serve as the new public library. Today, the library is still located at 1500 Main.