Main Library

Licking County Library Main Branch in Newark, Ohio

The history of the Main Library reaches back to March 16, 1908. On that date, City Council passed a measure to open a public library that would be free to all. The Council allocated $50 per month to employ a librarian, and books were donated by members of the Monday Talks Club to form a collection. Space for the library was made available in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Building, later known as the Auditorium Theater.

Location of the Library between 1920-1950 at 105 West Church Street.

The library remained there until 1920, when it moved to the old Hilliard family residence at 105 West Church Street. Library usage greatly increased during the Great Depression, which caused the space to be quickly outgrown. Due to financial hardships because of failed bond levies, the library was forced to remain in the house until a new facility could be built in 1949.

Location of the Library between 1950-2000 at 88 West Church Street. This is the current home of ADR & Associates.

The third home of the Main Library, 88 West Church Street, officially opened on August 9, 1950. This building served the community for 50 years until it, too, was outgrown. In 1997 a levy was successfully passed to fund the construction of a new building. On February 2, 2000, the fourth and current library was opened to the public at 101 West Main Street.

C.S.