Butler Area Public Library's History.

On February 16-17, 1894, the Butler Area Public Library was opened by the Literary Club, a group of 123 Butler women. In 1917, the library became the recipient of a grant from Andrew Carnegie, becoming one of the original Carnegie libraries. With funds from the Carnegie grant, the Butler Area Public Library opened at its present location, 218 N. McKean Street, in 1921.

 

The library underwent major renovations in 1966 and 2003. Since then, and thanks to a number of generous estate gifts, we were able to add a new roof to the library. We also created a new music center and renovated our young adult area. In addition, we built a new sun room and outdoor courtyard. All these physical changes allow us to serve our members better and to fulfill our mission in the community.

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Learn more about our 125+ year history here.