Midlothian Public Library

From a modest back room to a modern hub of knowledge, the Midlothian Public Library’s journey is truly remarkable. We stand before the Midlothian Public Library, a testament to the vision of the Midlothian Women’s Club and the Lion’s Club. In 1928, they recognized the burgeoning village’s need for a library. The Lions offered space in their clubhouse. The Women’s Club donated books from their personal collections. They committed to adding a new book each month. The library’s first librarians were club members, Ruth C. Andrews and Mrs. Harold Tebow. Almost every village resident contributed at least one book. The collection steadily grew. The Midlothian Community Library officially opened its doors in November 1931. By 1936, the library outgrew its initial space and relocated to the old Midlothian School building on Springfield Avenue. Thanks to the efforts of R.C. Andrews and the American Legion, a WPA grant funded this move. When the grant expired, the library relied on community support through tag days and donations until tax funding was approved. In 1943, residents voted to support the library with a tax levy. Six trustees were appointed to the library board. They secured the deed to the school building. The building, now the library, was moved to its current location in 1952. It underwent renovations in 1958 and 1971. The library continued to expand, reflecting the community’s growing needs. In 1989, a referendum passed, allocating $1.7 million for a new building. This building, designed by Frye Gillan Molinaro Architects Ltd., opened on 147th Street and Kenton Avenue in 1991. The former library became the home of the Midlothian Historical Society. The Midlothian Public Library has continuously adapted to the evolving needs of its patrons. In the early 2000s, the library underwent a complete interior renovation. This included relocating the children’s area, expanding internet access, creating a new main desk, and adding spaces for teens and a small café. From 2020 to 2023, further renovations addressed infrastructure issues and modernized the facilities. From a single room to a 14,914-square-foot building, the Midlothian Public Library embodies the vision of those who believed in the power of libraries. It has transformed from a repository of donated books to a gateway to the world through technology.