Monroe County Timeline
Most Significant Events in Topic "Library"
| First public library founded 1820 |
The first public library in Bloomington is founded. Located in a log court house, the library is run by an all-male board.
Source: "Library Celebrating Birthday," Daily Herald Telephone, April 13, 1970.
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| Fire at doctor's office 1838, Feb 26 |
A fire started in the ashes of the doctor's office of Drs. Foster & Ballard. Other businesses impacted: "The Frame buildings owned by G. H. Johnson, Esq. and occupied by Mr. Jonathan Legg, as a store, and S. T. Hardesty, as a tailor shop.... The valuable Medical Library of Drs. F. & B. was burnt in their office, together with all the account books and notes of our County Library, they being in possession of Dr. Ballard as Treasurer. Mr. Hardesty saved his books and a few pieces of cloths." The fire spread to the dwelling house of Mrs. Batterton.... Citizens were able to save the two story brick hotel occupied by Mr. John Hyndman....the store of G. H. Johnson was saved. All his goods were carried into the streets.
Source: Bloomington Post, March 2, 1838, 3. map
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| Library committee created 1842, Apr 27 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Library Board of Trustees, a committee of Dr. Foster and Dr. Hamill is created in order to confer with the County Commissioners to arrange affairs and settle the claims on the library from the county.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library committee created 1842, Apr 27 |
 At a meeting of the Monroe County Library Board of Trustees, a committee of J. Fee and C. Pering is created to confer with Mr. Tarkington about compensation for his services as Librarian. Image of painting by Cornelius Pering shows the courthouse library in 1846.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855 more...
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| Library board holds meeting 1845, Feb 11 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Library Board of Trustees, S.H. Buskirk creates a committee of Foster, Lawrence, and Fee for the purpose of examining the books of the library, finding damaged books, and rebinding or selling said damaged books, whichever they deem best. S.H. Buskirk also orders that the Treasurer report to the board the condition of the Library funds at the next meeting.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library board holds meeting 1845, Feb 11 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Library Board of Trustees, it is ordered that the present bylaws be readopted and that Lewis Bollman, Daniel Lunderman, S.H. Buskirk, and John Tipton Rogers be allowed one year free use of the library for services rendered.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Women allowed to use library 1848 |
Women are permitted to use the public library on Wednesday mornings.
Source: "Library Celebrating Birthday," Daily Herald Telephone, April 13, 1970.
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| Library allows women 1848, Jun 26 |
At a meeting of the library board it is decided that the "Indiana Tribune" will notify the public that the Library will be open on Wednesdays from 9AM to 12PM and will allow women to use the collection. The library will also be open on Saturdays to the usual members.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Browning elected Librarian 1848, Nov 20 |
At a meeting of the library board, Samuel H. Buskirk resigns as librarian and William F. Browning is appointed to replace him.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Hill appointed Librarian 1848, Dec 13 |
 At a library board meeting William F. Browning resigns as librarian and Addison Hill is appointed to replace him, as long as he can also use the library room as a Dentist's Shop.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855 more...
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| Library board holds meeting 1849, Sep 22 |
At a library board meeting Johnson McCollough and William C. Tarkington are elected to replace John Lawrence and John Fee, both having left the county. Read is also authorized to purchase new books for the library from Cincinnati.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library board holds meeting 1850, Dec 27 |
At a library board meeting Tarkington and Buskirk are appointed to procure an index books for the library.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library board holds meeting 1853, May 16 |
At a library board meeting it is ordered that the secretary and librarian write a complete catalog of all books in the library and renumber them as well. It is also decided that former board members will be authorized to use the library for free as long as they follow the rules of the library.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library adopts new bylaws 1857, Apr |
A new set of library board bylaws are adopted at the board meeting. The bylaws consist of seven new bylaws including; library patrons will pay 25 cents per quarter and can obtain books weekly, no patrons can keep a book longer than 3 weeks under a fine of 10 cents per week until the book is returned and will not be able to receive any more books, and transient individuals can not obtain books without first depositing a security equal to the value of the book being borrowed or by a "responsible person" becoming their security in writing for the value of the book being borrowed.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library adopts new bylaws 1857, Apr |
At a meeting of the library board, it is announced that the library board will be adopting a new set of bylaws written by Tarkington and Buskirk.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library board holds meeting 1857, Apr 3 |
At a meeting of the library board, James Hughes is appointed as a trustee replacing Tanner, who has left the county. Tarkington is elected Secretary of the board. The librarian is asked to have the window shutters repaired.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library committee created 1857, Apr 3 |
At a meeting of the library board Read, Foster, and Hamill are appointed to a committee to create a list of books the library should purchase and to report said list at the next meeting.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library committee created 1857, Apr 3 |
At a library board meeting a committee of Tarkington and Buskirk are appointed to rewrite the bylaws for the librarian.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Library board holds meeting 1857, Apr 19 |
At a library board meeting Milton A. McPhetridge is elected President, Robert Acuff is elected treasurer, and Paris M. McPhetridge is appointed librarian. A new set of seven library board bylaws is adopted.
Source: Monroe County Public Library, Monroe County Public Library Meeting Minutes, 1821-1855
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| Librarian pushes summer reading 1871, Aug |
Albert Bryan, librarian at the city library, tells the newspaper that he "will be glad to wait on persons desiring books" especially since the younger ones have time on their hands.
Source: "Monroe County Library," Bloomington Progress, August 8, 1871.
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| IU professor donates books. 1880, Mar |
 Indiana University's Professor George Washington Hoss donates 115 books the library at Bloomington's Colored School.
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| Fire destroys IU building 1883 |
A lightning storm strikes the city at about 7:30pm. The newspaper reports that officials think a telephone line that led into the building was struck by lightning and the current triggered the fire in a second-story room. The fire was not discovered until 10:30pm. The pouring rain and time of evening keeps potential observers away. The building, built in 1872, held the museum, the library, and the laboratory.
Source: "Another Blow at Bloomington's Best Interests. The New College Building Burned, Involving a Money Loss of $111,000 but Actual Loss Cannot be Computed," Bloomington Progress, July 18, 1883, 2.
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| Fire destroys Science Hall 1883, Jul 12 |
 A bolt of lightning strikes the Science building on the Seminary grounds around 6 p.m. setting fire to the library of Professor, and later President, David Starr Jordan. The fire smolders until 8 the following morning, leaving the contents of the building destroyed.
Source: D.C. Miller, "Old Bloomington," Daily Telephone, June 25, 1947. more...
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| Library must share with Auditor 1889 |
Whereas it appears on examination that the Monroe County Library room has been built by order of the county commissioners and does properly belong to the county, therefore be it known that the auditor holds his office in the said room free of charge and further that the library either to the county or auditor, permitted to remain in said room, and if the library trustees with a library, they must pay him out of their own funds.
Source: D. C. Miller, "Old Bloomington," Bloomington Republican, July 19, 1947, 4.
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| Sorosis Club applies for library unsuccessfully 1897 |
The Sorosis Club, a women's group in Bloomington, applies for funding for a library from Andrew Carnegie, but fails to garner local support.
Source: Bruce E. Lynch, The Old Library Bloomington, Indiana Preservation Feasibility Study (Historical Landmarks Foundation of Indiana, 1977), 2.
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| Library returns to courthouse 1907 |
The 19th Century Club reinstates a lending library in the new courthouse.
Source: Bruce E. Lynch, The Old Library Bloomington, Indiana Preservation Feasibility Study (Historical Landmarks Foundation of Indiana, 1977), 2.
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| New library building completed 1908, Feb 8 |
 The "Daily Student" reports that books have been transferred to the new library building on the Indiana University campus, later renamed as Franklin Hall.
Source: Burton Dorr Myers, History of Indiana University (Bloomington: Indiana University, 1952), 46. more...
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| 19th Century Club talks of library 1909, Oct 25 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. BJ Vos suggests that the club take up the work of starting a public library in Bloomington. A motion is made for a committee to be appointed in order to investigate the matter and see if it is feasible. The committee consists of Mrs. Vos, Mrs. Lena Beck, and Mrs. TJ White.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 23.
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| 19th Century Club committee reports back 1909, Nov 8 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, the committee to form a new public library reports back. They report that the County Commissioners gave permission to use a room in the Court House for the use of a public library. Professor Aley is willing to have his entire collection of children's books transferred from the university library to the proposed public library.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 23.
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| 19th Century Club donates to library 1910, Oct 31 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. Maude Showers moves that each member of the club be responsible for the donation of six books to the library. The motion carries.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 23.
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| 19th Century Club receives books for library 1911, Apr 10 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. BJ Vos reports that 56 good juvenile books have arrived from the Travelling Library Association. The books will go to the club's free public library.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 23.
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| 19th Century Club reports on library 1911, Oct 16 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. BJ Vos reports that the public library holds 132 volumes of fiction and 574 children's books. The income for the year at the library totals $41, and their expenses total $37.08.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 23.
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| 19th Century Club aims for Carnegie Library 1912, Feb 12 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. Samuel Pfrimmer and Mrs. EMC Hobb are appointed to join with Mrs. BJ Vos in an effort to make the public library into a Carnegie Library. This would entail funding from well-known philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 24.
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| 19th Century Club invites guests for library 1912, Apr 22 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. Lena Beck hosts members as well as guests to discuss the public library. Mr. Milan, state organizer of libraries, speaks. Other guests, such as Dr. Lindly, Dr. Howe, Superintendent Smith, Mrs. JD Showers, and Mrs. Jenkins (wife of an Indiana University librarian) all speak favorably of organizing a library.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 24.
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| 19th Century Club reports on library 1912, Oct 7 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, a report on the public library is given. Mrs. BJ Vos and Mrs. Mathers give the story of the library; they tell of interesting magazines and report that $150 has already been spent on books. Helen Barbour is appointed librarian, and 40 books are to be sent out to county schools.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 24.
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| Library board requests land 1913, Jan 23 |
The Building Committee of the Public Library Board requests to purchase the Colored School lot at a meeting of the City School Board. No decision is made.
Source: Bloomington School Board Minutes, January 23, 1912, held by Monroe County Historical Society.
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| 19th Century Club selects library for promotion 1913, Oct 6 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, members are presented with a request from the Local Council of Women to select some branch of public work to cherish and promote. The club unanimously declares in favor of the public library, referring to it as the club's "own child."
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 24.
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| Carnegie donates to library 1915 |
Andrew Carnegie donates $31,000 to help with the construction of the library on Sixth and Washington Streets.
Source: Donita Hadley, "A brief history of Monroe County Public Library," Herald Times, May 13, 1997.
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| Carnegie asked for more money 1915, Apr 2 |
Andrew Carnegie is asked to increase his donation from $28,000 to $40,000 to build the new library.
Source: "Will Ask $40,000 For New Library," Blooomington Weekly Courier, April 2, 1915.
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| Library board holds meeting 1915, Apr 2 |
Monroe County Library Board announces that they plan to ask Andrew Carnegie to increase his offer for the construction of a city library in Bloomington from $28,000 to $40,000.
Source: "Will Ask $40,000 For New Library," Bloomington Weekly Courier, April 2, 1915.
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| School building sold 1915, Apr 3 |
The African American school building at the corner of 6th and Washington streets is sold to the Monroe County Public Library board for $12,000. The building appraisal is $10,000 and there are no other bidders.
Source: Bill Coulter, "Banneker School, 930 W. Seventh St., Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana," State Historic Architectural and Archaeological Research Database (SHAARD), January 24, 2015, 2.
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| Library subscribes to "The Crisis" 1915, Jul 12 |
The newly forming library subscribes to "The Crisis", the official magazine of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), founded in 1910 by W. E. B. Du Bois.
Source: Library Board minutes, July 12, 1915.
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| Colored School demolished 1915, Aug 5 |
The Colored School is torn down to make way for new library building.
Source: Bloomington Evening World, August 8, 1915, p. 4.
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| Carnegie increases grant 1915, Oct 8 |
 It is announced that the Carnegie Corporation will increase the amount gifted to construct a library in Bloomington from $28,000 to $31,000. This increase is announced via letter by E.M.C. Hobbs.
Source: "$31,000," Bloomington Weekly Courier, October 8, 1915.
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| Carnegie grants Library $31,000 1915, Oct 11 |
Andrew Carnegie approves gift of $31,000 for construction of a new library in Bloomington, on the colored school site.
Source: Library Board Minutes, October 11, 1915.
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| Carnegie offer accepted by Library Board 1916, Jun 12 |
Carnegie's offer of funds to construct library accepted by Library Board, with city council pledging maintenance funds, so planning and construction begins.
Source: Library Board Minutes, June 12, 1916.
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| Carnegie turns down city 1916, Aug 16 |
The Carnegie Foundation turns down Bloomington’s offer of $3100 maintenance for the library.
Source: Daily Telephone, August 16, 1916.
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| Carnegie Library opens on old colored school site 1918, Feb 1 |
County's only Carnegie Library dedicated 1918 as Bloomington Public Library with 6,439 volumes; built with local support and $31,000 from Carnegie Corporation.
Source: Dedication Program, Bloomington Public Library, February 1, 1918.
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| 19th Century Club celebrates library dedication 1918, Feb 1 |
 The new Carnegie Library in Bloomington is dedicated. At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. Eudora Shoemaker writes that the club is proud of their achievement. Image from IU Mathers Museum ID 1973-11-0598.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 24.
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| City librarian starts 1918, Aug |
Greenfield librarian Mrs. Kate Poulson plans to start her new job as city librarian here. She takes over for Mrs. Catherine Ashman, who resigned and move out east. Mrs. Poulson will take charge next Monday, Aug 15.
Source: "New City Librarian," Bloomington Evening World, August 9, 1918, 1.
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| Scarlet fever postpones opening 1919 |
A scarlet fever epidemic postpones the opening of the Carnegie Library in Bloomington until after Christmas.
Source: "County Library Expands its Services," Herald Times, April 19, 1966.
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| 19th Century Club reports on library 1921, Jan 3 |
At a meeting held by the 19th Century Club, Mrs. BJ Vos reads a report from the library board. There are 128 subscribers, 980 books in stock, a daily average circulation of 197 in November, and a daily average circulation of 200 in December. There are 1000 students taking books from the library. There is a maintenance fund of $5000, of which $75 a month may be spent on books.
Source: Mrs. Alta B. Sembower, 19th Century Club Archives: Study of all secretaries' books, 1896-1950 (1951), 25.
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| Steele Honorary Artist in Residence 1922, Jun 7 |
T.C. Steele, renowned Hoosier artist, is invited to become "Honorary Professor of Painting" at Indiana University by President Bryan and the Board of Trustees. Steele was to be paid $2500 and would have an office on the top floor of the Library.
Source: Indiana University Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes June 7, 1922
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| Library gets bookmobile 1929, Jul 1 |
The library launches a bookmobile--a Model A Ford truck--which provides books to numerous towns and schools outside of Bloomington.
Source:
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| Bookmobile established 1929, Sep 12 |
Announced by Bertha Ashby, Monroe County Library librarian, a truck service designed to expand the reach of the library throughout the county was put into operation earlier this week. The truck is purchased by the county, improved to accommodate approximately 330 books.
Source: "Truck Increases Library Service: Rural Residents and School Children Benefitted.," Bloomington Star, September 13, 1928, 8.
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| Book course for children opens 1930, Jun 6 |
A vacation book course for school children opens at the Monroe County Public Library (MCPL).
Source: "Chronology of Events in 1930," Evening World, January 1, 1931.
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| Custodian given police power 1931, May 14 |
Bloomington Public Library makes public a ruling to give custodian Frank Rairdan police power to deal with disturbances and thievery at the Library. Mayor Joseph H. Campbell cooperates with the Library Board. Library staff report patrons loafing on the steps and general misconduct or disturbances, especially from running children unaccompanied by an adult and misuse of the telephone.
Source: "Library Board Gives Warning to Disturbers," Evening World, May 14, 1931.
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| Mayor Berndt announces reappointments 1936, Jul 3 |
Mayor A. H. Berndt today announces the reappointment of Raymond Renaker to the city school board and also the reappointment of Mrs. George Bridwell to the city library board of which she is now president.
Source: "A Last Look: In Pictures and in Paragraphs," Evening World, January 1, 1937.
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| Tax levies adopted 1937, Sep 24 |
Final adoption of all tax levies, which had been tentatively approved in an earlier session, is ordered by the Monroe county tax adoption board. No change is made in the board's previous action which had cut the levies of the school, city, library boards, and several townships.
Source: "Chronicle of Daily Events During 1937 in Bloomington and about Monroe County," Evening World, January 1, 1938, 7.
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| Woodburn gives book to library 1939, Oct 18 |
 James Albert Woodburn gives a copy of his book "Woodburn History: Some Generations of a Family" to the Bloomington Public Library with the inscription, "Presented to the Bloomington City Library, by the Author." The book includes transcripts of family letters, diaries, and antidotes, including references to the early schools, churches, and the Underground Railroad.
Source: James Albert Woodburn, Woodburn History: Some Generations of a Family (1936) more...
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| Library honors Wilson 1939, Nov 6 |
The Monroe County Public Library honors Mrs. Maude E. Wilson, a deceased Library Board President, by planting a Japanese blood-leaf maple tree in her memory on the grounds of her former home. The lot is now occupied by the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity house.
Source: "Library Board Plants Maple in Honor of Mrs. Maude E. Wilson," Evening World, November 6, 1939.
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| 2 Bloomington public libraries 1940 |
The city directory states that Bloomington has two libraries: The Carnegie Public Library, containing 40,000 volumes, and the Indiana University Library, which has 305,000 books and materials.
Source: National Directory Company, Bloomington Indiana City Directory 1940 (Parsons, KS: National Directory Company, 1940), IX.
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| Mary Ritter Beard speaks at IU 1941, Apr 14 |
Mary Ritter Beard, the prominent historian and archivist, speaks at the Indiana University Auditorium.
Source: http://www.iuauditorium.com/events/archive
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| Library annual report given 1946, Jan 16 |
According to a report given by Monroe County Public Library Librarian, Bertha Ashby, a total of 66,622 people visited the library during 1945. 93,501 books were borrowed. The library board approves her report.
Source: "217 Use City Library Each Day Of 1945," The Bloomington Tribune, January 16, 1946.
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| 2 Bloomington public libraries 1948 |
The 1948 city directory states that Bloomington has two public libraries: the Bloomington Public Library with 44,500 volumes and the Indiana University Library with 700,000 volumes.
Source: Polk's Bloomington City Directory 1948 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk and Co., 1948)
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| 2 Bloomington public libraries 1950 |
The city directory states that Bloomington has two public libraries: the Bloomington Public Library with 50,700 volumes and the Indiana University Library with 800,329.
Source: Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1950 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., 1950), VIII.
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| Public Library has 50,700 volumes 1950 |
The city directory states that the Bloomington Public Library has 50,700 volumes.
Source: Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1950 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., 1950)
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| IU Library has 800,329 volumes 1950 |
The city directory states that the Indiana University Library has 800,329 volumes.
Source: Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1950 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., 1950)
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| 2 Bloomington public libraries 1953 |
The city directory states that Bloomington has two public libraries: the Bloomington Public Library with 54,233 volumes and the Indiana University Library with 718,215 volumes.
Source: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1952-53 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1953)
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| Public Library has 54,233 volumes 1953 |
The city directory states that the Bloomington Public Library has 54,233 volumes.
Source: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1952-53 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1953)
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| IU library has 718,215 volumes 1953 |
The city directory states that the Indiana University Library has 718,215 volumes.
Source: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1952-53 (St. Louis, MO: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1953)
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| Library builds addition 1955, Aug |
Bloomington Public Library opens an addition at the southeast corner of their building to alleviate problems with their limited facilities. The second floor is devoted to cataloging, book repair, and supplies so that the basement can be less congested. The lower floor is devoted to housing the book-truck or bookmobile and storage.
Source: "Growing Up!," Bloomington Daily Telephone, August 1, 1955.
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| Public Library has 56,779 volumes 1957 |
The city directory states that the Bloomington Public library has 56,779 volumes.
Source: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1957: Including Monroe County Taxpayers (St. Louis: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1957)
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| IU library has 1,000,000 volumes 1957 |
The city directory states that the Indiana University Library has 1,000,000 volumes.
Source: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, Ind.) City Directory 1957: Including Monroe County Taxpayers (St. Louis: R. L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1957)
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| Library size promoted 1958 |
The city directory shows that the Bloomington has one combined city and county library with 60,180 volumes.
Source: Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, IND.) City Directory 1958 (St. Louis, MO: R.L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1958), 12.
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| IU Library volumes promoted 1958 |
The city directory states that the Indiana University Library has 1,000,000 volumes.
Source: Polk's Bloomington (Monroe County, IND.) City Directory 1958 (St. Louis, MO: R.L. Polk & Co., Publishers, 1958), 12.
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| Libraries merge 1965 |
The Bloomington Public Library merges with the Monroe County Public Library system. The Monroe County Public Library Foundation is formed.
Source: "County Library Expands its Services," Herald Times, April 19, 1966.
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| Library open on Sunday 1966 |
Monroe County Public Library extends its hours to open on Sundays 1:30-5:30pm, making it the only library in Indiana that offers full services on Sundays.
Source: "Monroe Library Continually Improving," Herald Telephone, March 4, 1966.
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| Library opens on Sundays 1966, Jan 9 |
Monroe County Public Library begins opening on Sundays, with the first Sunday open over 175 adults using the library services. Sunday hours will be open 1:30 to 5:00PM.
Source: "Extended Library Hours Prove Popular Move," Herald Telephone, January 14, 1966.
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| Voters league material added to library 1966, Feb 17 |
Monroe County Library librarian Charles W. Hunsberger announces that the Bloomington League of Women Voters publications are now available through the circulation department.
Source: "County Library Now Stocked With Voters' League Material," Star-Courier, February 17, 1966.
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| Library programs 1966, Feb 26 |
Monroe County Public Library announces that the old basement storage area has been remodeled into a cultural center. The audio-visual room will seat 24 people for film showings. Regular Sunday afternoon films are scheduled to begin March 6th.
Source: "Exciting New Things Happening At Library," Herald Telephone, February 26, 1966.
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| Library announces new services 1966, Mar 10 |
Monroe County Public Library announces that they have recently completed a special music room used for the lending of records, tape cassettes, musical scores, and librettos. The room was added to the library with the help donations from the Bloomington Unit of the Indiana State Symphony Society.
Source: "Dedicated," Daily Herald Telephone, March 10, 1966.
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| Ellettsville Branch announced 1966, Apr 19 |
Monroe County Public Library librarian Charles Hunberger announces that plans are underway to open a Ellettsville branch library by June 1st. This branch of the library will be open between 4 and 7 PM daily. The Bookmobile will also add another stop at Leonard Springs at an undetermined date.
Source: "County Library Expands Its Services," Herald Telephone, April 19, 1966.
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| New library supported 1966, Apr 28 |
Consultants surveying Monroe County's library needs recommended that a new building be planned in a downtown location. This will replace the present overcrowded facilities and provide for future growth. The two man consultant team present their report to the Monroe County Library Board. A complete report is expected in May.
Source: "New Downtown Library Urged," Daily Herald Telephone, April 29, 1966.
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| New library plans underway 1966, May 10 |
Plans to rebuild the Monroe County Library are underway. It is announced that the new building will be built much more accessible to those with disabilities than the old building.
Source: "New Library Plan Sounds Good," Herald Telephone, May 10, 1966.
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| Library board honors two 1967 |
Dr. Paul Nicoll and John Snider are presented with certificates of appreciation upon retiring from the board of trustees. The certificates recognize their contributions to Monroe County Public Library, as well as to the community.
Source: "Library Board Honors Two," Herald Telephone, February 23, 1967.
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| Jaycees donate books to library 1967 |
The local Jaycees,a junior group with the Chamber of Commerce, form a a Book-a-Month Club, choosing one book to donate to the Monroe County Public Library each month.
Source: "Jaycees Aiding Library," Herald Times, May 6, 1967.
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| Library announces new room 1967, Jan 23 |
Monroe County Public Library announces that they have opened a new business and technology room in a space previously used for book storage. Mrs. Donald Dewey is the new business and technology librarian.
Source: "Library Adds New Department," Daily Herald-Telephone, January 23, 1967, 24.
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| Library honors board members 1967, Feb 22 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board two retiring board members receive certificates of appreciation from board president, Mrs. Frances McNeely. The certificates were awarded to Dr. Paul Nicoll and John Snider
Source: "Library Board Honors Two," Herald Telephone, February 23, 1967.
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| Library misses deadline 1967, Mar 21 |
It is announced that the Monroe County Public Library Board will not be able to apply for federal funds for the construction of a new library building by April 1st because the board has not yet decided on a location for the building. They announce that plans for construction of the library will most likely not be final before next fall, however the missing of this deadline will not delay construction. Funds will not be available until October 1st.
Source: "Library To Miss Deadline," Bloomington Tribune, March 21, 1967.
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| Book-A-Month Club created 1967, May 6 |
The Bloomington Jaycees announce the forming of a Book-A-Month Club to help the Monroe County Library. Each month the service club will select a book wanted by the library and purchase it for them.
Source: "Jaycees Aiding Library," Herald Telephone, May 6, 1967.
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| City discovers ownership 1967, Jun 8 |
Due to recent inquiries about the Monroe County Library's possible move, it is discovered that the Library building and the County Courthouse are both property of the city of Bloomington and have been since 1816.
Source: Rex Momus, "City Owns Courthouse & Library, Experts Say," Star-Courier, June 8, 1967, 1,8.
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| Library construction location chosen 1967, Jul 13 |
The first parcel of land for the new site of Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) is purchased. The library board of trustees is moving to put together a package of land containing 18,216 square feet at the corner of Kirkwood and Lincoln.
Source: "Bloomington's Year: A look at the major local news reported during 1967 in the H-T," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 29, 1967. map
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| Mrs. McNeely re-elected President MCPL Board 1968 |
Mrs. Roy McNeely gets re-elected as president of the Monroe County Public Library Board of Trustees.
Source: "Mrs. Roy McNeely Re-Named Head Of Library Board," Ellettsville Journal, January 10, 1968.
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| Libraries move forward in Bloomington, Ellettsville 1968 |
A storefront library branch opens in Ellettsville on Sale Street, while construction on new main library in Bloomington has begun.
Source: "First Library Branch Open ," Star-Courier, April 19, 1968.
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| Child's section honors Freese 1968 |
The Monroe County Public Library names its children's collection in memory of Alice Freese. Freese had left more than a half-million dollars to the library, with the recommendation that the board consider the children's department in its allocation.
Source: John Fancher, "Library To Name Child's Section For Miss Freese," Herald Times, December 20, 1968.
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| Library lends art work 1968, Jan |
The Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) promotes its new framed art collection, available for circulation.
Source: "Library Lends Framed Artwork," Herald Telephone, January 17, 1989.
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| Library board holds meeting 1968, Jan 5 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Library Board, Mrs. Roy McNeely is re-elected president of the board and James R. Regester is hired as project attorney for a proposed new library. Merrill Brisler was elected vice president, Mrs. Arthur Clark was elected secretary, and Mrs. Donald H. Gray was elected treasurer.
Source: "Building Plans Advance: Library Board Re-Organized," Herald Telephone, January 6, 1968.
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| Library program 1968, Feb 1 |
Monroe County Public Library celebrates the 50th anniversary of its building with cake served by retired 40-year librarian Bertha Ashby.
Source: Herald Telephone, February 2, 1968.
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| Library receives federal funds 1968, Feb 1 |
The Monroe County Public Library receives $514,000 in federal funds from the Department of Health, Education and Welfare.
Source: "Bloomington's Year: A Look at Major Local News Reported in the H-T in 1968," Herald Telephone, December 31, 1968.
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| Inman appointed trustee 1968, Feb 5 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board of Trustees, Ward Inman is appointed as a new trustee.
Source: "Inman Takes Library Post," Herald Telephone, February 7, 1968.
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| Ward Inman new appointee 1968, Feb 7 |
Ward Inman takes his oath of office as a new appointee to the Board of Trustees of the Monroe County Public Library. This marks the first time in the library's history that organized labor is represented on its board.
Source: "Inman Takes Library Post," Herald Times, February 7, 1968.
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| Library board buys land 1968 |
The library board purchases land for a new building on Kirkwood Avenue in Bloomington from Dr. and Mrs. Paul Wenzler and Dr. and Mrs. Louis Byrne.
Source: "Library Board Completes Land Purchase Deal," Star-Courier, February 13, 1968.
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| Ellettsville Library opens 1968, Apr 21 |
The Ellettsville Branch library opens. Mrs Jane Henning will be the librarian in charge of the around 5,000 books in the branch. It is located at the old Constable Grocery Store.
Source: "Ellettsville Library opens doors for business today.," Bloomington Tribune, April 21, 1968.
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| Library promotes record albums 1968, Jun |
The Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) promotes its collection of large-sized records or LP albums. The new collection starts of with 24 titles and includes popular artists such as the The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and the Monkeys. Patrons are limited to checking out one album at a time.
Source: "Library Has Big Record Collection," Herald Telephone, June 24, 1967.
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| Library design approved 1968, Jun 16 |
The Library Board approves the library building design as well as most of the Alice A. Freese bequest of over $500,000. The new library is to be built on Kirkwood Avenue, with most of the Freese gift going toward construction.
Source: "Bloomington's Year: A Look at Major Local News Reported in the H-T in 1968," Herald Telephone, December 31, 1968.
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| Library bond brings protest 1968, Jul 8 |
Monroe County Library proposes a $1.4 million bond issues, against which residents are protesting with the encouragement of County Assessor Homer Lentz.
Source: "Bloomington's Year: A Look at Major Local News Reported in the H-T in 1968," Herald Telephone, December 31, 1968.
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| Bookmobile serves Miller Drive 1968, Jul 18 |
Monroe County Public Library Director Charles Hunsberger and Bookmobile librarian Delbert Searles express satisfaction for a new bookmobile stop at the corner of Miller Drive and Olive St. The request for service came to the library from Mrs. Ellis, director of the Community Action Program, and Mary Norris, supervisor for Head Start. The library also partnered with E.J. Cox, minister of the Church of Jesus Christ, to make the stop work.
Source: "Bookmobile Begins to Serve Miller Drive," Daily Herald Telephone, July 20, 1968. map
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| Ellettsville gets a new librarian 1968, Aug 7 |
The Ellettsville branch library gets a new librarian, Mrs. Margaret Coolman. She succeeds Mrs. Jane Henning as librarian at the Ellettsville branch. Mrs. Henning was the Ellettsville librarian from the opening of the branch last April to August 1968.
Source: "Mrs. Margaret Coolman is new branch librarian here; Succeeds Mrs. Jane Henning," Ellettsville Journal, August 7, 1968.
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| Worrall house razed 1968, Dec |
 The former home of Cal. Worrall is torn down to make way for the new public library. Located at 301 E. Kirkwood. Worrall is remembered as the former county Democrat chairman and secretary-treasurer of the County Fair Association of that day. Worrall reportedly entertained often and had a reputation for good horses and fine buggies He once owned a livery stable at College and 7th Street.
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| Library board holds meeting 1968, Dec 19 |
At a Monroe County Library board meeting, the County Librarian, Charles Hunsberger, announces that the library has spent all but $3.03 of the library's 1968 budget and that the library's children section will be named after Alice A. Freese. Library board attorney James Regester also announces that the final writing of the library bond prospectus is being completed and he hopes to present it to the board in early January.
Source: "Library Board finishes year's slate of business," Courier-Tribune, December 20, 1968.
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| Freese endows library 1969 |
Alice Freese leaves $590,000 to Monroe County Public Library in her will to help pay for the construction of a new library at Kirkwood Avenue and Lincoln Street in Bloomington.
Source: "Library Will Be Finished In 1970," Daily Herald Telephone, September 18, 1969.
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| Gray reappointed to library board 1969, Jan 9 |
The Monroe County Community School Board re-appoints Mrs. Donald Gray to the Monroe County Library Board for another four years. Mrs. Gray's term had expired January 1st. Merrill Crisler is also appointed to the library board.
Source: "Mrs. Gray to library post," Courier-Tribune, January 14, 1969.
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| Library names bond company 1969, Feb 7 |
The Northern Trust Company of Chicago is the successful bidder on $1,355,000 worth of bonds sold by the Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) Board of Trustees to finance a new building at Kirkwood and Lincoln.
Source: "Bloomington's Year," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1969, 1.
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| IU Library fire investigation continues 1969, May 2 |
Authorities continue their investigation of possible arson of the Indiana University Graduate Library fire that caused nearly $1 million damages. This damage comes after the second fire in less than three months.
Source: "Bloomington's Year," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1969, 9.
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| Librarian admits to arson 1969, Jun 28 |
A 28 year-old Indiana University librarian admits to setting two fires that together caused over $1 million damages to the IU Graduate Library.
Source: "Bloomington's Year," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1969, 9.
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| Library board holds meeting 1969, Sep 24 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, it is unanimously voted that the board will try to restore $40,000 budget cuts taken by the Monroe County Tax Adjustment Board. $61,000 total were slashed from the proposed $362,000 budget, however the board chooses to only seek restoration of $40,000 in order to make sure that the library will not have to cut back on the quantity and quality of library services.
Source: "Library Board decides to battle to restore cut funds," Courier-Tribune, September 25, 1969.
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| Man dies constructing new library 1969, Oct 27 |
While working at the construction site for Monroe County Public Library's new building at 303 E. Kirkwood, Frank L. Frost dies from a fall. A carpenter from Switz City, Frost was working for Weddle's construction company.
Source: "Switz City Man Dies From Fall," Herald Telephone, October 28, 1969.
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| Smith biography added to library 1969, Nov |
 Mrs. Henry Lester Smith presents to the public library a copy of book about her husband, who was Dean of Education for IU 1916-1945. She inscribes in the book a note that Mr. Smith was a "friend of the first Bloomington Public Library. He drove his father's horse and buggy train over Monroe County seeking support of citizens for a tax levy."
Source: Robert Joseph Elmes, Henry Lester Smith: Dean, School of Education, Indiana University 1916-1946 (Bloomington: Indiana University, 1969) more...
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| Library promotes film collection 1969, Dec 27 |
The Fine Arts Department of the Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) promotes its new film collection with about 20 titles ready for borrowers. Patrons with questions can talk to Fine Arts Librarian Sally Hunt.
Source: "Public Library Lists New Film Collection," Herald Telephone, December 27, 1969.
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| Tax board cuts budgets 1970, Sep |
The tax adjustment board slashes $250,000 from the Monroe County Community School budget and $75,000 from the Monroe County Library (MCPL) budget. Both of these cuts are appealed to the state tax board.
Source: "1970 A Year Of Triumph And Tragedy In Bloomington," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1970, 2.
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| Carnegie library closes 1970, Oct |
 After the library in Bloomington closes because of limited space, a new building is constructed across the street.
Source: Bloomington Daily Herald-Telephone, October 30, 1970.
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| Library board holds meeting 1970, Oct 28 |
The Monroe County Public Library board meets for the first time in the new library building at 303 Kirkwood Avenue. It is announced that the library will be opened Sunday from 1 to 5PM. The board decides that no fines will be charged for overdue material during the first week of the new building being opened. The board also approves of a $14,662 reduction fee still owing to Attorney Regester. The fee was originally $17,500.
Source: "Board Considers Renting Old County Library," Daily Herald Telephone, October 29, 1970.
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| New Library opens 1970, Nov |
 The new $2.5 million Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) opens its doors for the first time.
Source: "1970 A Year Of Triumph And Tragedy In Bloomington," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1970, 2. more...
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| Public library opens 1970, Nov 10 |
 The new Monroe County Public Library opens at the corner of Kirkwood Avenue and Lincoln Street in Bloomington.
Source: The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce: A History: 1915-2003, 21. more...
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| Freedom Shrine dedicated 1971 |
The Bloomington Exchange Clubs dedicate the Freedom Shrine to the Monroe County Public Library.
Source: "Freedom Shrine Dedicated," Herald Times, April 26, 1971.
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| Painting presented to library 1971 |
Elmer Guy Smith presents a painting of the Bloomington Country Club to the Indiana Room at the Monroe County Public Library. The painting was painted by Clara Z. Haynes in 1924.
Source: "BBC Painting Presented To Public Library," Herald Times, February 21, 1971.
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| Book retrieval system planned/Dedication postponed 1971, May 27 |
The Monroe County Public Library announces that they plan on installing the Randtriever, an automatic book retrieval system on June 20th, however a formal dedication of the new library on Kirkwood Avenue is postponed (for the second time) until September 19th.
Source: "New Library Dedication Now Set For September 19," Herald Telephone, May 27, 1971.
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| New Librarian 1971, Jun 16 |
Librarian Sue Marshall will take over the Ellettsville Branch library. Mrs. Marshall will be assisted by Mrs. Mary Young. The former Ellettsville librarian, Mrs. Susan Casovina moved with her husband to Vermont.
Source: "Sue Marshall in charge of town library," Ellettsville Journal, June 16, 1971.
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| Library loses budget 1971, Jun 17 |
The Monroe County Library loses $23,200 from a $28,200 budget by the authority of the State Board of Tax Commissioners. Some services will be cut.
Source: "June, July: Trials Make The News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 29, 1971, 16.
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| Library budget cuts remain 1971, Jul 7 |
Despite a plea given to director of field representatives for the State Tax Board Burt L. Harris, the drastic budget cuts in the Monroe County Public Library budget will remain. Library services will have to be curtailed.
Source: "June, July: Trials Make The News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 29, 1971, 16.
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| MCPL proposes budget increase 1971, Jul 29 |
The Monroe County Public Library proposes a $420,000 budget for 1972, with the aim to open six days a week.
Source: "June, July: Trials Make The News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 29, 1971, 16.
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| MCPL director Hunsberger resigns 1971, Oct 28 |
Charles Hunsberger resigns as director of the Monroe County Public Library.
Source: "August-October: Budgets, Elections, Trials In Local News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 30, 1971, 20.
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| MCPL plans to open 7 days 1971, Oct 28 |
The Monroe County Public Library plans to open seven-days-a-week after January 1st.
Source: "August-October: Budgets, Elections, Trials In Local News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 30, 1971, 20.
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| New MCPL dedicated 1971, Nov 8 |
The new Monroe County Public Library is dedicated in a public ceremony.
Source: "Annexation, Sewers Make Late-Year News," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 31, 1971, 24.
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| Watercolor donated to library 1971, Dec 27 |
Dorothy Blair donates a framed watercolor landscape entitled "Saw Mill" to the Monroe County Library. It is the first original painting added to the Library's collection. Other local artists are encouraged to donate works of art as well.
Source: "Original Watercolor Donated To Monroe Co. Public Library," Herald Telephone, December 27, 1971.
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| Library offers drug education 1972 |
New drug education sessions are offered at the Monroe County Public Library.
Source: "New Approach to Drug Ed. Offered," Daily Herald Telephone, December 5, 1972.
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| Trinkle named new director 1972, Mar 4 |
Robert "Bob" Trinkle is named new library director for Monroe County Public Library.
Source: "'72 Big Year In Bloomington..Miller Dr. Among Top Issues," Daily Herald-Telephone, December 30, 1972, 2.
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| Library board holds meeting 1972, May 30 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board agrees to rent the old library building to the Whole Theater, a community group that sponsors all forms of the arts. The Board plans to ask its attorney, James Regester, to write a lease setting the rent at $200 per month and stating that Whole Theater will be responsible for making any repairs they may need to make.
Source: Wing Barfoot, "Old Library Rented," Courier-Tribune, May 31, 1972.
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| Library board holds meeting 1972, Jul 25 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board approves the publication of a $463,546 operating budget for 1973. The proposed budget is increased $43,546 from the current budget.
Source: John Fancher, "Up $34,546 From Last Year: $463,546 Budget OK'd By Library For '73," Herald Telephone, July 26, 1972.
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| Library board holds meeting 1972, Jul 25 |
At a Monroe County Public Library Board meeting, J. Michael Shoemaker announces his interest in buying the old library building and proposes paying $15,000 down and $10,000 per year for 10 years with his balance to be paid at the end of that period. After his proposal and presentation, Charles Ansbach, representative for Whole Theatre, withdrew his offer to lease the building.
Source: John Fancher, "Shoemaker Wants To Buy Old Library On Contract," Herald Telephone, July 26, 1972.
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| Library board holds meeting 1972, Oct 31 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board announces that the new Randtriever, an automatic book retrieval system, was supposed to be in full operation by November 5. However a motor burned out and they are unsure when it will be replaced. The library receives a free four-month extension of its maintenance contract. The board also discusses the possibility of a junior advisory board for the Young Adult Library, and the need for an advance on tax draw until tax revenue is distributed.
Source: "Randtriever Delayed Again," Daily Herald Telephone, November 1, 1972.
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| Juvenile criminal justice discussed 1972, Nov 20 |
On a panel presentation on "the Juvenile Criminal Justice System in Monroe County" Dan Hobson, Judge Nat U. Hill, and Kay Lueken discuss the philosophy and workings of the juvenile court system. The panel presentation is held in the Monroe County Public Library.
Source: John Ross, "Juvenile Justice Discussed," Courier-Tribune, November 21, 1972, 1-2.
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| Library committee created 1972, Nov 28 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board introduces the new Teen Advisory Board. The new board contains five members under the direction of Library Director Robert Trinkle, board members Frances McNeely, Helen Clark, Ward Inman, and Louise Huddleson, and Young Adult Librarian Judith Braunagel.
Source: Courier-Tribune, November 29, 1972, A3.
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| Library board holds meeting 1972, Dec 26 |
It is announced at a Monroe County Public Library Board meeting that the library will begin offering personal library services to shut-ins on January 2. Library Director Robert Trinkle also announces that the Indiana Information Retrieval System will be fully functional by January 2 and that the library will extend its Friday hours to 9PM (instead of 5PM).
Source: John Fancher, "Library Shut-In Services To Begin Next Month," Daily Herald Telephone, December 27, 1972.
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| Library presented with mural 1973 |
Monroe County Public Library is presented with "Masks," a mural painted by Jose Piedra.
Source: "Library Accepts Mural," Courier-Tribune, August 27, 1973.
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| Board sells old library 1973 |
The Monroe County Public Library Board sells the old library to the Bloomington Redevelopment Department for $125,000.
Source: "Board Agrees To Sell Old Library To City," Herald Times, May 3, 1973.
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| Library board changes leadership 1973, Jan 4 |
New Monroe County Public Library Board members are elected at a board meeting. These members include Helen Clark, secretary; Frances McNeely, president; Ward Inman, vice president; and Louise Hudelson, treasurer.
Source: "Library Officers," Courier-Tribune, January 5, 1973.
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| Library board holds meeting 1973, Jan 30 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, representatives from the Monroe County Historical Society express interest in purchasing the old Carnegie library building at Sixth and Washington Street. The library board reminds them that they no longer have a commitment to sell the old library property to the city, but they will think over the proposal.
Source: John Fancher, "Historical Society May Seek Old Library Purchase," Daily Herald Telephone, January 31, 1973.
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| Joint meeting planned 1973, Feb 22 |
The Monroe County Historical Society and the Indiana Sassafras Audubon Society announces that they will hold a joint meeting February 23 in the Monroe County Public Library. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss possible solutions for the preservation of old buildings in Bloomington. The two speakers at this meeting will be Dr. Henry Glassie of the Indiana University Folklore Dept. and Kim Northam of the Indiana Division of Tourism.
Source: John Ross, "Preservation of Old Buildings Promoted," Courier-Tribune, February 22, 1973.
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| Petition begins to save old library 1973, Mar 16 |
Members of the Monroe County Historical Society announce that a petition is now circulating to gather a goal of 1,000 signatures in order to save the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets) from being demolished to make way for a parking lot.
Source: "Petition to Save Library Readied," Courier-Tribune, March 16, 1973.
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| Library board hearing cancelled 1973, Mar 20 |
The Monroe County Public Library Board cancels the planned public hearing to decide the future of the old Carnegie library building. The board decides to further investigate other options for the building.
Source: Rose Rumely, "Library Board Cancels Hearing," Courier-Tribune, March 20, 1973.
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| Library board holds meeting 1973, Mar 27 |
Monroe County Public Library Board Library Director Robert Trinkle announces that the regularly scheduled board meeting on Wednesday will function as a new public hearing to decide the fate of the old Carnegie library building. At the end of the meeting, they will hold a vote on the re-development department's offer to purchase the old building for $125,000.
Source: "Old Library Talks Planned," Courier-Tribune, March 27, 1973.
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| Library board holds meeting 1973, Mar 28 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, votes determined that the board reject the city's offer to purchase the old library building (6th and Washington Streets.) for $125,000 and voted to offer it for sale on the open market.
Source: John Fancher, "Old Library Offer Rejected," Herald Telephone, March 29, 1973.
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| Library condemnation OK'd 1973, Apr 2 |
The Bloomington Board of Redevelopment Commissioners, at the request of Mayor Frank McCloskey, unanimously approve the initiation of condemnation proceedings against the Monroe County Public Library Board in order to acquire the old library site at Sixth and Washington Streets.
Source: Byron Rohrig, "By Redevelopment Commission: Library Action, NDP Okayed ," Herald Telephone, April 3, 1973.
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| Library condemnation started 1973, Apr 17 |
It is announced that the condemnation of the old Carnegie library building at 6th and Washington Streets is to start immediately after an hour-long required meeting between the Monroe County Public Library Board and the Bloomington Redevelopment Commission ends in a stalemate.
Source: Rose Rumely, "Condemnation of Library Readied," Courier-Tribune, April 18, 1973.
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| Library board holds meeting 1973, Apr 26 |
It is announced that the Monroe County Public Library Board will hold another meeting to reconsider the Bloomington Redevelopment Departments proposal to purchase the old library building (6th and Washington Streets) for $125,000.
Source: "Library Reconsiders City's $125,000 Bid," Herald Telephone, April 26, 1973, 1,2.
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| Library board holds meeting 1973, May 2 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board votes to sell the old Carnegie library building (at 6th and Washington Steets.) to the Bloomington Redevelopment Department for $125,000.
Source: "Board Agrees To Sell Old Library To City," Herald Telephone, May 3, 1973, 1,2.
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| Board agrees to sell old library 1973, May 2 |
The Monroe County Public Library Board agrees to sell the old library at 6th and Washington Streets to the city.
Source: "An Eventful 12 Months in Bloomington," Daily Herald Telephone, December 29, 1973.
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| Library visit planned 1973, Aug 24 |
The Monroe County Public Library and Arbutus Rest Home are working together to organize a visit to the library for around 6 wheel chair-bound patients for September 12th. The Monroe County Red Cross Chapter is to provide transportation and the Indiana University Volunteer Students Bureau will help provide volunteers to help the disabled.
Source: John Fancher, "Arbutus Patients Will Visit Library," Herald Telephone, August 23, 1973.
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| Film series cancelled 1973, Aug 29 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, Library Director Robert Trinkle announces that the library will be temporarily discontinuing film presentations at the library. This is because all of the non-profit groups who sponsor the various film series have been ordered to discontinue the programs because of the reports from local theater owners contending that their business has suffered due to the services. The Library agrees to discontinue these services at least temporarily.
Source: Chris Chapman, "Film Series At Library Over After Theatre Owners Object," Courier-Tribune, August 30, 1973.
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| New Bookmobile introduced 1975, Nov 1 |
The Monroe County Public Library holds a ceremony in the library parking lot to "launch" the new Bookmobile.
Source: "Library Launches New Bookmobile," Ellettsville Journal, November 5, 1975.
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| Books donated in memorial 1975, Dec 4 |
It is announced that the Monroe County Women's Department Club donated four books to the Monroe County Library in memorial of four deceased members: Fay Wegmiller, Esther Schindler, Marjorie Bean, and Nellie Winslow. These four books are "Foliage House Plants," "Speak to the Earth," "Hoosier Caravan: a Treasure of Indiana Life and Lore," and "Good Housekeeping Complete Book of Needlecraft."
Source: "Books are memorials," Herald Telephone, December 4, 1975.
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| Library board holds meeting 1975, Dec 29 |
At a Monroe County Public Library board meeting, the board approves staff salaries for 1976 and a new personnel manual, with an equal opportunity and affirmative action plan. Board secretary Helen Clark was also reported as unable to be reappointed, according to law.
Source: John Fancher, "Library board approves staff salaries," Daily Herald Telephone, December 30, 1975.
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| Library closes on Sundays 1976 |
Monroe County Public Library eliminates its Sunday hours due to new budget restrictions.
Source: "Library to close on Sundays," Daily Herald Telephone, November 26, 1975.
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| Public hearing scheduled 1976, Feb 16 |
It is announced that on February 25 a public hearing will be held by Monroe County library administrators to determine whether or not there are objections to using funds from county property and excise taxes in order to reinstate employee hours and reopen the library Friday afternoons and Sundays. If there are no objections, the tentative reinstatement date is April 1st.
Source: Sandy Lenzi, "Tax funds may aid county library," Indiana Daily Student, February 16, 1976.
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| Library funds approved 1976, Feb 25 |
The Monroe County Public Library board approves special funds totaling $20,008 in order to be able to reopen the library on Sundays. The plan must now be submitted to the State Board of Tax Commissioners before funds can be used.
Source: "Library board approves Sunday operation funds," Herald Telephone, February 26, 1976.
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| McDonald's and Library work together 1976, Apr 5 |
It is announced that from April 7th to April 14th long overdue library books can be turned in at three McDonald's locations (2300 N. Walnut, 2819 E. Third St., and west on Whitehall Pike) and the returner will receive a free hamburger and order of french fries. To be considered long-overdue, the books must have been checked out in or before February.
Source: "Burgers swapped for books," Indiana Daily Student, April 5, 1976.
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| Public hearing 1976, May 13 |
At a public hearing to determine the fate of the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets) four Bloomington City Council members decide to appropriate only a minimal amount of money in order to keep the library from deteriorating further while the council delays the final voting until next fall.
Source: Ron Alsop, "Library's fate still in doubt," Herald Telephone, May 14, 1976.
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| Ellettsville branch library vandalized 1976, Jun |
The Ellettsville branch library is vandalized. The "Ellettsville Journal" runs an editorial critical of the vandals, calling on Ellettsville's citizens to have civic pride and look after the town.
Source: "An Editorial," Ellettsville Journal, June 6, 1976.
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| Possible library sale 1976, Jun 22 |
Mayor Frank McCloskey announces that he is contemplating the sale of the old Monroe County Public Library (Sixth and Washington Streets) to Kathy Canada for $50,000 and the title to People's Park.
Source: Ron Alsop, "McCloskey 'contemplating' sale of library," Herald Telephone, June 22, 1976.
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| City to buy People's Park 1976, Jun 22 |
Mayor Frank McCloskey announces that he has made a verbal agreement to sell the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Street) to Kathy Canada for $50,000 and the title to People's Park (Dunn St. and Kirkwood Ave.).
Source: Mark Wert, "City to buy People's Park in exchange for old library," Indiana Daily Student, June 23, 1976.
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| Kinzer opposes library sale 1976, Jul 14 |
Councilwoman Patricia Kinzer announces that she opposes Mayor Frank McCloskey's plan to sell the old Monroe County Public Library building to Kathy Canada for $50,000 and the title to People's Park.
Source: Ron Alsop, "Kinzer opposes 'deal' on old library," Herald Telephone, July 14, 1976.
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| Offer to buy library 1976, Sep 2 |
Mayor Frank McCloskey announces that the First Christian Church has offered to buy the old Monroe County Public Library building for $90,000. It is also announced that Kathy Canada has withdrawn her offer to buy the old library building for $50,000 and the title of People's Park. She has agreed to give People's Park to the city.
Source: "Church offers to buy former county library," Indiana Daily Student, September 6, 1976.
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| Library sale delayed 1976, Sep 7 |
At a meeting of the Bloomington Plan Commission, the Commission delays making a decision on the historical designation for the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets). The decision will be delayed until January at the request of the First Christian Church.
Source: Nancy Weaver, "Old library fate still hanging," Daily Herald-Telephone, September 8, 1976.
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| City Council meeting 1976, Sep 22 |
Bloomington City Council votes to recommend to Mayor Frank McCloskey that the city keep ownership of the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets). Council President Clem Blume announces that this suggestion will be sent via letter.
Source: Nancy Weaver, "Old library: Council suggests city remain owner," Herald Telephone, September 23, 1976, 1,2.
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| Proposal to lease library 1976, Oct 21 |
President of the Monroe County Historical Society, Norris Wentworth, proposes to Mayor Frank McCloskey that the Historical Society be able to lease the old Monroe County Public Library building for 25 years starting July 1, 1977
Source: Sherry Howman, "Group asks to develop old library," Indiana Daily Student, October 22, 1976.
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| Mayor announces plans for library 1976, Nov 4 |
Mayor Frank McCloskey announces that he would prefer to see the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets) either sold or leveled to make way for a parking lot.
Source: Sherry Howman, "Mayor: Sell old library of level it," Indiana Daily Student, November 8, 1976.
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| Injunction sought 1976, Dec 29 |
Monroe County Historical Society and the Save the Library Committee announce that they are seeking an injunction from the federal court to stop the sale or demolition of the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets). They have filed a civil suit against the City of Bloomington, the city's redevelopment department, and the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development according to attorney Guy Loftman.
Source: Nancy Weaver, "Injunction sought to stop library sale," Herald Telephone, December 29, 1976.
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| Settlement sought 1977, Mar 21 |
It is announced that the lawyers for the Monroe County Historical Society and the Department of Housing and Urban Development hope to settle out of court a suit over the future plans for the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets).
Source: Kay Stewart, "Settlement sought in Old Library suit," Herald Telephone, March 21, 1977.
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| Mayor's plan for library 1977, Apr 12 |
According to the Bloomington City Council, Mayor Frank McCloskey's plan to demolish the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets) is being debated among council members. His proposal to raze the old library building is being considered by the Board of Public Works at a meeting.
Source: Kay Stewart, "McCloskey's plan for library facing City Council reservations," Herald Telephone, April 12, 1977, 1,2.
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| Library demolition planned 1977, Apr 12 |
Mayor Frank McCloskey announces that permission to advertise for bids to demolish the old Monroe County Public Library building has been granted from the Bloomington Board of Works. A local historical society announces that the Mayor should expect a court fight to save the library.
Source: "Society Protests Library Razing," The News Indiana-Bloomington Bureau, April 13, 1977.
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| Public Works Board meeting 1977, Apr 12 |
The Bloomington Board of Public Works authorizes the first steps towards demolishing the old Monroe County Public Library (Sixth and Washington Streets).
Source: "Board votes to raze library," Indiana Daily Student, April 14, 1977.
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| Restraining order prohibits demolition 1977, Apr 16 |
A U.S. district court judge announces that a temporary restraining order prohibiting the demolition of the old Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets). This restraining order will be effective until April 26th, when Judge S. Hugh Dillin will consider a preliminary injunction to stop the destruction of the building until the suit against the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the city of Bloomington is settled.
Source: "Order restrains city from wrecking library," Herald Telephone, April 16, 1977.
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| Restraining order lengthened 1977, Apr 27 |
The temporary restraining order issued to prevent the demolition of the Monroe County Public Library building (Sixth and Washington Streets) is extended until June 1st. On that day U.S. District Court Judge S. Hugh Dillin will consider a preliminary injunction to stop destruction of the library building until a suit between the city and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Monroe County Historical Society and Save the Library Committee is settled.
Source: "Order barring library razing in effect until June 1," Herald Telephone, April 27, 1977.
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| City Council meeting 1977, May 5 |
The Bloomington City Council votes that plans name the old Monroe County Public Library building to the National Register of Historic Places are tabled indefinitely.
Source: Kay Stewart, "Library site opposition tabled," Herald Telephone, May 6, 1977.
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| Divorced fathers organize 1977, May 5 |
The second meeting of persons organizing to achieve better equality for divorced fathers is promoted in the newspaper. The group, which is still working on a name, is led by Pat Campbell and Linda Miller, plans to meet at the Monroe County Public Library on Sunday.
Source: "Divorced fathers to meet," Herald Telephone, May 6, 1977.
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| Feasibility study released 1977, Jun 11 |
The Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indianapolis releases a feasibility study for the preservation of the old limestone Monroe County Public Library building. The restoration of the old building for use as a county historical museum and cultural center will cost an estimated $90,000.
Source: Holly Stocking, "Save-the-library effort shifts into high gear," Herald Telephone, June 11, 1977.
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| Museum fund begins 1977, Jun 19 |
Old Library Inc. begins a campaign to raise $90,000 to gain support for the restoration of the old Monroe County Public Library building to be turned into a county museum and cultural center.
Source: Bill Schrader, "For old Monroe County Library; Museum fund campaign begins," Herald Telephone, June 19, 1977.
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| Group receives old library 1977, Aug 13 |
The Old Library Inc. receives the old Carnegie library building in Bloomington through a deed.
Source:
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| Old library sold 1977, Oct 22 |
The old Monroe County Public Library building is sold to The Old Library Inc. for restoration into a county museum and cultural center for $50,000. The City of Bloomington transfers ownership of the library.
Source: "Old library ownership transferred Saturday," Sunday Herald-Times, October 23, 1977, 2.
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| Library board pays mortgage 1978 |
After eight years of construction, the Monroe County Public Library will burn its mortgage to celebrate paying off its construction debts.
Source: "Library board pays mortgage," Herald Times, November 30, 1978.
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| McNeely re-elected Library President 1978, Jan 13 |
Frances McNeely elected for 13th term as President of the Monroe County Public Library Board. She has been President since 1965.
Source: "McNeely library president again," Herald Times, January 14, 1978.
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| McNeely retires from library board 1979, Dec 31 |
Frances McNeely plans to retire from the library board after twenty-seven years, fifteen of which she served as president.
Source: "President Frances McNeely retiring from library board," Herald Times, December 21, 1979.
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| Library petition signatures certified 1981, Jun 2 |
Monroe County Auditor Vi Simpson announces that the auditors office has certified 3,554 signatures on the petition supporting Monroe County Public Library plans to issue $500,000 worth of bonds to make library improvements.
Source: "Signatures certified," Herald Telephone, June 2, 1981.
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| Library hearing planned 1981, Jul 29 |
A final public hearing on the $500,000 bond issue to make improvements to the Monroe County Public Library is planned to be conducted at 11:30 AM on August 26. These plans were made at the monthly library board meeting.
Source: "Library hearing set," Herald Telephone, July 30, 1981.
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| Library bonds sold 1981, Oct 27 |
$500,000 worth of Monroe County Public Library bonds were sold to Raffensperger, Hughes, & Company of Indianapolis. The bonds were sold to raise money for major improvements of the library.
Source: John Fancher, "Library sells bonds to make improvements," Herald Telephone, October 28, 1981.
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| Monroe jail documentary to air 1982, Jun 20 |
A documentary series examining the Monroe County Jail will air on Bloomington public access Channel 3 the week of June 28. The three-part series entitled "Who's In Jail?" will be previewed at the Monroe County Public Library Monday at 2 PM. The series is produced by Indiana University forensic instructor Hal Pepinsky and will look at three elements of the jailing process. Part one, "The People," will air June 28 at 8 PM. Part two, "To Jail Or Not To Jail: A Survey of Issues," will air June 29 at 8 PM. Part three, "Alternatives To Jailing: A Forum," will air July 1 at 8 PM.
Source: "Preview Monday for documentary on Monroe jail," Herald Telephone, June 20, 1982.
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| Library installs security system 1982 |
Monroe County Public Library purchases a new security system for borrowed materials. Items that have not been checked out now trigger an alarm at the library's exit.
Source: John Fancher, "Library security system ready," Herald Times, July 29, 1982.
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| Library security system announced 1982, Jul 29 |
It is announced that starting on Monday, August 2, the Monroe County Public Library will begin using a new security system designed to help the library maintain better control of books and other materials.
Source: John Fancher, "Library security system ready," Herald Telephone, July 29, 1982.
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| Library adopts circulation policies 1982 |
Monroe County Public Library implements a new computer system that automatically tracks due dates. Patrons are now unable to check out until they return overdue items.
Source: John Fancher, "Circulation policies adopted," Herald Telephone, November 25, 1982.
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| Juvenile inmates create whistles 1983, Jun 17 |
Mildred MacKenzie works with juveniles in the Monroe County Jail, teaching them to create clay whistles. MacKenzie has made clay bird whistles for 14 years. The inmates make their whistles into whatever shapes they want and MacKenzie fire them in a kiln at her home. Their whistles are displayed at the Monroe County Public Library (303 East Kirkwood Ave.).
Source: Kerry O'Rourke, "Making Music," Herald Telephone, June 17, 1983, 17.
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| Library bans smoking 1984 |
The Monroe County Public Library bans smoking in public areas of the library. Staff members are permitted to smoke in library offices because they are not considered public areas.
Source: John Fancher, "Smoking banned in public sections of library," Herald Telephone, July 12, 1984.
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| Library elects new board president 1984 |
Virginia Rose is elected president of the Monroe County Public Library Board.
Source: John Fancher, "Library board elects president," Herald Times, February 2, 1984.
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| Library promotes video collections 1984, Mar |
Donna Newman, the Audio-Visual Department Head at the Monroe County Public Library (MCPL), promotes the video collection. The library now has 90 titles. It still provides 16mm film and record albums as well as equipment for these formats.
Source: "Library has Movie Video Cassettes," Herald Telephone, March 9, 1984.
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| PCB display removed from library 1984, Jun 26 |
A display created by The Citizens for Clean Air and Water was removed from the public library because it contained capacitors filled with PCBs.
Source: Steven Hinnefeld, Brian Werth, "Library closed until Monday over PCB display," Herald Times, June 26, 1984.
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| Binkley elected library president 1986 |
Morris Binkley is elected as the president of the Monroe County Public Library Board.
Source: John Fancher, "Binkley elected library president," Herald Times, February 6, 1986.
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| Library board holds meeting 1986, Feb 5 |
 At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, Morris Binkley is elected president, Becky Hrisomalos, secretary, and Marian Armstrong is elected treasurer to replace Carol Curry (resigned). Assistant Library Director Jan Farley announces that a huge book sale will be held for the sale of books no longer needed as they are removed from the Randtriever system. After the Randtriever system is removed, this space will be used to remodel library space.
Source: John Fancher, "Binkley elected library president," Herald Telephone, February 6, 1986. more...
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| Board pays for HVAC monitoring 1987, Apr 2 |
At a meeting of the Monroe County Public Library Board, the board approves a five-year contract with Holmes Energy Services Inc. to monitor the library's heating and cooling systems and make recommendations for cost-effective operations.
Source: Steven Higgs, "Library to get new energy management system," Herald Telephone, April 2, 1987.
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| Handicap aid added to library 1987, May 6 |
Monroe County Public Library Director Bob Trinkle announces that automatic door openers will be installed at the back doors to make the building more accessible to those with disabilities. They hope to have them installed by June 1st.
Source: Steven Higgs, "Library renovations aid access for handicapped," Herald Telephone, May 7, 1987.
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| Library promotes bargain for tax payers 1987, Aug 5 |
Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) Director Bob Trinkle states that county residents get value for their investment when using the library collections. For example, he reports that 387,629 people viewed 14,258 16mm films in 1986.
Source: Steven Higgs, "Library Director says Taxpayers got Bargain," Herald Telephone, August 14, 1987.
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| Library board changes leadership 1988, Feb 3 |
At a Monroe County Public Library Board meeting Virginia Rose is re-elected president, Morris Binkley is re-elected vice president, Becky Hrisomalos is re-elected secretary, and Don Small is re-elected treasurer. Phillip Rambo is also elected to the board.
Source: "Library board head re-elected," Herald Telephone, February 4, 1988.
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| Computerized Bookmobile announced 1988, Nov 3 |
It is announced that the Monroe County Public Library is using a $7,200 grant awarded from the federal Library Services and Construction Act to equip the Bookmobile with a computer terminal and communications equipment.
Source: Tim Gallimore, "New bookmobile attracts patrons," Herald Telephone, November 3, 1988.
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| Grants given to library 1989, Feb |
Two Library Services and Construction Act grants are given to the Monroe County Public Library by the Indiana State Library. A $2,000 grant will be used to buy a telecommunication device, sending four staff members to sign language classes, purchasing deaf awareness and deaf culture videos, and to buy three television decoders. A $200 grant will be used to purchases carrying cases for the television decoders.
Source: "Grants to help library serve hearing-impaired," Herald Telephone, February 13, 1989.
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| Forum discusses juvenile facility 1989, Sep 19 |
The Monroe County Public Library holds a public forum discussing a proposal to establish a multi-county, multi-function juvenile facility in Monroe County. The hearing is conducted by the Juvenile Justice Task Force.
Source: "Juvenile center hearing crucial," Unknown, September 19, 1989.
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| Historic Ellettsville buildings razed 1989, Nov 29 |
Two historic houses and the historic corner business building in Ellettsville are razed to make way for the new Ellettsville Library branch.
Source: "Razing of Old Buildings Reveal Ellettsville's Past," Ellettsville Journal, November 29, 1989, 1,3.
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| Judge Rules in Favor of Library 1989, Dec 6 |
Judge James Dixon rules in favor of the Monroe County Public Library in a lawsuit involving the awarding of the contract to build the new Ellettsville branch of the Monroe County Public Library. Smock Associates of Indianapolis initiated a lawsuit claiming their bid was the lowest and should have been accepted. The Library board instead awarded the contract to Neidigh Construction who, the board claims, submitted a more complete bid.
Source: Betty Jo Robertson, "Judge Rules in Favor of Library Board," Ellettsville Journal, December 6, 1989.
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| Bomb threat evacuates library 1990, Aug 10 |
After Monroe County Public Library employees receive a telephoned bomb threat, officials evacuate the library. Upon inspection, no bomb is found and the library reopens later in the day.
Source: Tim Jackson, "Bomb threat evacuates the library," Herald Times, August 8, 1990.
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| State corrections officers meet representatives 1990, Sep 18 |
State corrections officers meet representatives from Bartholomew, Brown, Crawford, and Floyd counties at the Monroe County Public Library auditorium in order to urge surrounding counties to give their financial support for the Monroe county juvenile detention center. Although Monroe County received $502,665 from the state on August 23, the purchasing and renovating of a building to use for the center has been slowed due to minimal support from surrounding counties.
Source: Andrew Welsh-Huggins, "Correction officials seek support for juvenile center," The Herald Times, September 19, 1990.
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| Library head retires 1992, Sep 30 |
Bob Trinkle retires after twenty-one years as director of the Monroe County Public Library.
Source: Steven Higgs, "Search under way to replace retiring Monroe library head," Herald Times, May 30, 1992.
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| Library assists patrons with disabilities 1993 |
The Monroe County Public Library offers equipment to assist patrons of various physical abilities. Among the assistive equipment is a roverwalker, a wheelchair, descriptive videos, and listening devices.
Source: Erin Wells, "Library can assist disabled patrons," Herald Times, June 8, 1993.
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| Time capsule dedication planned 1994, Apr 16 |
"The Herald Times" promotes the dedication of the county's 175th anniversary time capsule, set for Sunday at the Monroe County Historical Museum. Anniversary chair Evelyn Powers had worked months in advance with Monroe County Public Library director Dave Bucove and museum curator Chris Bobbitt to plan an extensive community call out for significant and fun items. Folks turned some paper items: handbooks and restaurant menus, letters from children, and a copy of the consent decree for the PCB cleanup. Other items include a t-shirt from the Girl Scouts, an IU alumni license plate, seashells from Lake Monroe, tape recordings of live broadcasts from radio stations Cool 1370 and Rock 92. The final installation of the capsule is still in consideration, with it likely getting embedded in the new library building in design now or the museum.
Source: Jackie Sheckler, "Anniversary capsule a timely finish," The Herald Times, April 16, 1994.
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| Rose receives library trustee award 1997 |
Former Monroe County Public Library board president Virginia Rose receives the Indiana Library Federation Outstanding Trustee Award, for advancing library services in her region.
Source: "Rose recognized for service to library," Herald Times, May 14, 1997.
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| Sculpture designed for library 1997 |
The sculpture "Enlightenment" is donated to Monroe County Public Library by artist Beverly Stucker Precious of Indianapolis.
Source: Donita Hadley, "Sculpture designed for library," Herald Times, May 13, 1997.
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| Library addition dedicated 1997, May 13 |
The Monroe County Public Library is officially rededicated after a new addition is added onto the building.
Source: Donita Hadley, "Lots of factors led to the library project," Herald Times, May 13, 1997, Supplement.
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| Bears at library dedication ceremony 1997, Sep 6 |
At the library's dedication ceremony, the Monroe County Public Library Foundation unveils a family of bear sculptures created by Karl Schiefer. The bears sit outside the library on its Kirkwood Avenue side.
Source: "Library dedicating bear sculptures," Herald Times, September 6, 1997.
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| Walker withdraws CATS proposal 1998, Nov 17 |
Robert Walker, a board member of the Monroe County Public Library, withdraws his proposal for new rules for the Community Access Television Services (CATS). Residents complain that the rules seem to be politically motivated, causing the proposal's withdrawal. Walker proposed the new rules in an attempt to ensure CATS impartiality.
Source: Kurt Van der Dussen, "Walker withdraws his CATS proposals ," Hoosier Times, November 17, 1998.
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| Library provides health resources 1999 |
Thanks to Bloomington's Local Council of Women, the library unveils its new Health Central collection, where consumers can get information on health-related topics.
Source: Steve Hinnefeld, "Library to provide health resources," Herald Times, May 18, 1999.
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| Library given award 2004 |
The Indiana Library Federation honors the Monroe County Public Library with its Danny Gunnells Intellectual Freedom Award.
Source: "Library board advances Ellettsville renovation," Herald Times, March 25, 2004.
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| Televised library board sessions 2008 |
Library board sessions become televised during odd number months.
Source: "Board will televise some work sessions," Herald Times, August 22, 2008.
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| Bookmobile goes hybrid 2010 |
In the interest of saving gas and being more environmentally friendly, the new Monroe County Public Library's bookmobile is a hybrid vehicle.
Source: "Monroe library getting hybrid bookmobile," Herald Times, January 25, 2010.
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