Looking Back: The Warder Free Library and Reading Room

The Warder Free Library and Reading Room opened in 1890. Photo Courtesy of the Clark County Historical Society

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

The Warder Free Library and Reading Room opened in 1890. Photo Courtesy of the Clark County Historical Society
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By Staff Report
Updated Nov 12, 2017
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The Warder Free Library and Reading room was a unique public space when it opened in 1890.

It was open on Sundays providing a center for knowledge available to the community.

The grand Richardsonian Romanesque style building was one of eight designed by the Boston-based firm of Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge.

Its interior was unique, positioning the reading room perpendicular to the stacks, separated by a large arch and a semicircular oak delivery desk that provided swinging gates for librarians to easily access both areas.

The beautiful reading room, shown here in the 1930s, was a grand place with Doric columns, carved designs, and an 18-foot fireplace.

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