The Thorntown Public Library is a remarkable historic resource for this small town. The original brick library was a Carnegie funded project that opened its doors in 1914. The floor plan is based on one of the Carnegie plans that were prevalent for the later libraries. Much of the original furniture, woodwork and shelving remains in place and is in pristine condition. In 2004, the library expanded, adding a mirror floor plan of the original Carnegie structure connected by an entry hall. Painstaking efforts were made to create a cohesive addition that preserved the character of the original building.
Karen, the librarian, spent time with us to describe the building, contents and services provided. The addition improved accessibility of the library, added an elevator, kitchen, classroom and much needed space for the e expanded offering of books, dvds, videos, puzzles, games and more. The library serves three townships.
The children's books and services are located on the first floor. A kid friendly restroom is decorated by kids. There are tables for building puzzles and chairs for reading.
Upstairs is a genealogy/history center located in the original Carnegie building. A young stuffed eagle collected locally and hawk are housed in the center. A teen reading room located behind the center. Karen told us that local teens completed the artwork on the ceilings. Community engagement is evident throughout the facility.
An adult library is located on the south end of the library. There is comfy seating to read.
A resident cat, Chance, lives in the library and welcomes patrons.
There's plenty of free parking outside the building.
This is a super facility with a ton of history and worth a visit or two. They are part of the Evergreen program! read more