“His-to-ry (noun) ~ the past events of a period in time or in the life or development of a people, an institution, or a place”
From as early as 1889, there was talk of the need for a public reading room in Gaylord. Various book lending/renting programs grew through the years until the official roots of our current library system took hold.
In 1975, a weekly Bookmobile visited Gaylord allowing the residents to access the latest title. Through local efforts, the official Gaylord City Library was established on November 1976. It took residence at 215 Fourth Street, currently apartments next to Kirsch Interiors.
The library consisted of two rooms, a 24′ x 15′ reading room and a 15′ x 15′ meeting room, which was later expanded to accommodate bookshelves and a copy machine.
Through an association with Minnesota Valley Regional Library, which is part of the Traverse des Sioux Regional Library system, residents had access to almost any book, newspaper, reference material, magazine, film, and other resources.
In 1985, the Gaylord Public Library moved into the former bank building – built in 1920 – at 322 Main Avenue. This location allowed more space for materials and services.
With funding from a state grant, the building underwent extensive remodeling in 1996 for a computer lab, public restroom, and handicap accessibility.
As the library continued to meet the needs of the community, new programs were formed. Readers of all ages were encouraged to participate in reading programs, children enjoyed story hours, book clubs were formed, and English as a Second Language classes were developed.
In 2000, the building underwent another expansion converting the old bank vault into a Junior Reading section. The building had reached its capacity and talks started to find a solution to create a larger library space for the community.
Through the work of dedicated library staff, board members, city officials, state legislators, patrons and the community, a plan was developed.
On April 11 and 12, 2008, the Gaylord Public Library held its grand opening ceremony at its new 428 Main Street location, the former City Hall and City Offices.
Compiled in part from “Gaylord-Hub of Sibley County” published by the Gaylord History Committee 1982