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| The Osborne Library came into being in 1889, founded by the Osborne Ladies Library Association. Dr. Henshall, Mayor of Osborne, wrote to Andrew Carnegie, who approved a gift of $6,000 for a library building on January 12, 1912. Work began on the building October 18, 1912. The library opened on July 11, 1913. The building was remodeled in 1979 and new shelves were added in 1986. In February 1987, the library was approved by the Kansas Historic Sites review board for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. The nominations that are approved are automatically listed in the Register of Kansas Historical Places. In 1993 the library board and Library Director addressed the need for more space by announcing their intention to begin a fund drive for a new building. The public responded and on January 2, 1995, a new 6,528 square foot building opened for business and has served the Osborne city patrons and a large rural area ever since. Present day services include three public computers and printers, microfilm and reader/printer, genealogical materials, copier, audiocassettes, videos, CDs, DVDs, books, 28 periodicals, plus a story hour with an enrollment of 18 and a very strong Summer Reading program that includes preschool through adult readers. Also available is a meeting room and sunroom for community functions. A new program started in 2006 provides child care givers in-home delivery of children's books each week. The library board and staff strive to give the best, most up to date service possible. |
1987 picture of Osborne Public Library 
2006 picture of Osborne Public Library |