Area News

By Brian Bell

On Saturday, June 6th, The Henderson County Public Library celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the current Library building opening. 

The new library was opened to the public on June 1st, 2001 in the center of Henderson County in Biggsville. The event was partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and local funds from the Two Rivers Arts Council.

The Library was started in 1957 servicing 8 different stops spread out through the county. Originally the library services were based in a rented building in Biggsville. 

In 1959 the voters of the county approved of the process to create a permanent library space. The original library was built and sold to the county and served as the hub of library activities starting in 1960 until services the public expects from a public library outgrew the original location.

The First State Bank of Biggsville donated two lots for the new location. David and Mary Lou Hill donated an additional lot and in 1999 the task of building a new library capable of serving the needs of Henderson County was launched. 

Past Director Carolyn Fry attended Saturday’s celebration, along with her husband Don, who were both instrumental in the creation of the current building. 

Carolyn worked on the grant applications to land a $250,000 grant from Jesse White, the Illinois State Librarian. Carolyn’s dedication made the new facility happen. 

Also in attendance was Past Director Anita Smith, who took over when Carolyn retired. There were many past and present board members in attendance as well as many current and former employees. 

Beautiful music was provided by Claire Tillotson, as patrons reminisced about the library while enjoying refreshments and community participation.