Although it had been repeatedly discussed and various temporary schemes tried since the early 1890's, the reality of a public library for Leadville began with a meeting of the town's citizenry on the evening of March 12, 1897.  The purpose of the meeting was to form a library association and public response was enthusiastic.  The Leadville Public Library Association was subsequently formed with Mary Louise Stickley as President and sixty-five charter members.  To gain public confidence, the association was incorporated under Colorado law on August 20, 1897.

Opinions on how to use the three dollar per year membership fee were divided initially but it was decided that all collections would be used for a building fund rather than for purchasing books.  The fund grew slowly during the next five years despite the numerous community efforts at raising money.  Finally, as a last resort, application was made to the Andrew Carnegie Foundation.  The first two applications were not even acknowledged, but the third, largely through the efforts of Rev. David Fleming who had visited the Institute, was favorablv received.  Soon came the reply that $20,000 would be provided if the city would furnish a site and $2,000 a year for maintenance.  The city quickly agreed and levied a new tax for the purpose.

The cornerstone was laid on October 25, 1902 and the library formally opened on January 8, 1904.  The first librarian  was Miss Zoe Guernsey and chairman of the new library's board of trustees was Jesse F. McDonald, later governor of Colorado.

The early part of the 20th century saw a drastic decrease in Leadville's former prosperity.  Often, city warrants could not be redeemed and the library salaries went unpaid for months.  In 1947, the board of trustees requested that the library become a county library under the provisions of the 1947 Library Act in order to receive county funding.  This was approved by the county and the Public Library of  the city of Leadville became the Lake County Public Library on December 1, 1947.  In October 1967, the library became a part of the Three Rivers Library System.

During the 1960's it became apparent that the original Carnegie building had become inadequate and in 1967 active planning for the new facility was begun.  Matching federal funds were obtained and work began at the 12th and Harrison site on September 3, 1970.  The new building was officially opened on May 5, 1971.  It contains over 7,000 square feet with space for over 20,000 volumes, in addition to a public meeting room.  Total cost was over $200,000.

---written by David Parry, former Library Director

[ Home ]

Last modified: 02/12/10