Library History, Pt. 3 - Bev Russell, Library Director

(This column appeared in the October 14, 2007, Star-Herald)

In 1936, the heart of the Great Depression, the community of Scottsbluff built an addition to the old Carnegie Library with a crucial assist from the WPA. This addition relieved the overcrowded conditions at the library for a number of years. From 1936 to 1966 the Scottsbluff Public Library remained in the Carnegie building. The library expanded its services, and use of the library grew. Librarian’s reported 29,330 patrons, using the Reading Room in 1936.

By the 1950s overcrowding again became an issue. To alleviate space problems the children’s library was moved to the auditorium area in 1957. By 1962 the need for a larger building became evident. The north end of Central Park was a suggested site for the new building. With the incentive of matching grant from the Library Services and Construction Act, a bond issue passed 1,783 to 856 in April 1965, and construction began on November 1, 1965. The library moved into its new "digs" on September 17,1966. On Veteran’s Day the library was formally dedicated.

The Scottsbluff Public Library remains today much as it was in 1966. It sets in the pastoral beauty of what we now call Constitution Park. (An architect told me that the park sets off the library like a magnificent temple. Maybe he just wanted to get on my good side.) Library operations have grown and changed much in the last 40 years. Approximately 30,000 volumes were moved into the new building in 1966. Now, the library collection is over 90,000 items, with approximately 70,000 of those books. Former Library Director Shirley Flack remembers that she stood at the circulation desk in 1966, looking across the library. She thought she would need roller skates to get around such a huge area. In 2006, over 134,000 visits to the library were recorded, and no one was on roller skates. (At least, not to my knowledge.)

The Scottsbluff Public Library received huge financial assistance in its building expansions over the years—first from the Carnegie Corporation, next from the WPA, and finally from a LSTA grant. This funding is no longer available, and the library needs your help.

Expanding and improving a library building that is 40 years old is not cheap. Today, the library needs the support of those who recognize the value of a free public library to a vigorous, growing community. The building project will cost $4.1 million and will expand the library to 23,010 sq. ft. The cornerstone of the expansion will be state-of-the-art children and teen sections. The City of Scottsbluff and the Scottsbluff Public Library Foundation will share the cost with additional dollars sought through grants and the capital campaign.

The Scottsbluff Public Library is a legacy to each generation, offering the heritage of the past and the promise of the future. It serves as a gathering place for all ages and socio-economic groups. The size of the library (13,015-sq. ft.) was generous in 1966, but times have changed.

A 21^st Century library is more than just a warehouse for books. It provides a gathering space for people. It is a safe haven for children after school—a place where teens can interact—where adults can enjoy a quiet read—and a place that the entire community can call its own. It is really a community living room. As our capital campaign progresses, please join us as the Scottsbluff Public Library moves into the next exciting phase of its existence.

(Thanks again to Shirley Flack for the historical information in this article.)

:: Go to Library Home ::

Scottsbluff Public Library :: 1809 Third Avenue :: Scottsbluff, NE 69361 :: 308-630-6250