Our History
Rooted in History, Built for Community
Explore the milestones, moments, and images that have shaped the Marion Public Library over time and continue to guide our mission today.
Planting the Seeds of a Library
The Marion Federation of Women's Clubs is established for the purpose of establishing a public library in Marion.
Funding Secured
Adeliza Daniels (front and center) writes to Andrew Carnegie for funds for a public library in Marion. Carnegie responds to this letter, donating $11,500.
Laying the Foundation
The cornerstone of Marion Carnegie Library is laid, and work begins immediately.
Opening the Doors
The Marion Carnegie Public Library is dedicated and opens to the public. Residents take pride in the new library, and it receives consistent ratings as one of the city's most attractive spots.
Engaging Our Youngest Readers
As the city's population grows, the Children's Department and Reading Room is established and dedicated. This department would grow to serve thousands of children each year.
Growing With Our Community
An $80,000 city bond issue is approved for a two-story addition to the library. It opens in April 1961, doubling the library's size, and Library Director Ruth Mills reports, "People Are Reading More Books Than Ever." The full library undergoes a major renovation 13 years later.
Reimagining the Library
Marion City Council passes resolution supporting a new library building project. The library is built south of City Square Park.
Nancy A. Miller Library Opens
Named after its lead benefactor, the new library opens to the public. It will serve the community for more than 24 years.
Weathering the Storm
The library is hit by a derecho - an inland hurricane. The building is heavily damaged, and 20% of the library's collection is lost. Library services are spread across Marion as a new building is constructed.
6th Avenue Library Opens
The new library building opens to the public. Double the size of the Nancy A. Miller building, it boasts traditional and updated library amenities, including a culinary kitchen, programming rooms for all ages, a MakerSpace, and more.
Rolling Into the Community
The library's bookmobile - designed to expand access beyond library walls - begins servicing parts of Marion. Bookmobile stops include locations such as parks, grocery stores, and recreational facilities.