Elkhart Public Library District

About

In 1888, Mrs. Lemira Gillett promised to build a library for the citizens of Elkhart if the village was voted 'dry' for three years. Once this was done, Mrs. Gillett rented a room and paid for shelves and furnishings. She also gave $1,000, the interest to be used for purchasing books. Mrs. Charlotte (Gillett) Barnes also gave $1,000, the interest to be used for upkeep. In 1893 the Library opened to the public with 214 volumes. After her death, daughter Miss Jessie Gillett continued her dream with certain conditions including a 2-mills tax levy, and that 6 board members be elected, three being women. The library legally became the property of the town in 1902, and in 1904 the present building was erected as a memorial to her mother.

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