History of the Library

In 2019, the Girard Free Library celebrated its 100-year anniversary.

The library in 1920

The Girard Free Library in 1920 

October 15, 1919:  Girard citizens gather at the town hall to discuss opening a library, and the Girard Library Association is formed.

May 12, 1920:  The library officially opens on the second floor of the town hall, with books and magazines collected by the Campfire Girls.  There is a $1 membership fee.   

1923:  The library's collection surpasses eight thousand items and library membership four thousand people.  

1937:  The Campfire Girls provide library service to shut-ins; the library moves into a wing of the new city hall. 

Librarian checking out a book in 1938

Checking out a book in 1938 was serious business.

July 19, 1973: The library moves to its present, much more spacious location on Prospect Street; new display cases, a conference table, a brightly decorated children's section, study carrels, a larger work room, and a custodian's office are added.  It is formally dedicated on Sunday, September 30.

Library under construction

The library under construction

1980:  The library adds 3300 square feet for more study carrels and shelving for books, magazines, and audiovisuals.  

April 1983:  Computer literacy classes begin after the library receives a federal grant to purchase an Apple IIe.

January 1984:  The library adds word processing classes.  

January 11, 1989:  The Friends of the Library hold their first meeting.  

1993:  The library adds 2500 square feet.

2001:  Our collection reaches 78,000.

2010:  Girard residents approve a 1.5 mill continuing levy for the library.  

2011:  Girard joins the Clevnet library consortium.

View of the library from the street with tree, shrub, and tulips in bloom

The library today