Chenoa Public Library History

The Chenoa Public Library was made possible by a gift from a group of a former Congregational Church. This group being of such small numbers, was unable to maintain a church, so in 1912 the church building and grounds were offered to the city of Chenoa to be used as a public library.

The library board is to consist of one member from each of the different churches, three from the former Congregation Church and one to be selected by the board from the citizens at large. Those on the first board were the following: Congregational, E.M. Pike, S.E. Evans, Dr. Lillian B. Stump; Baptist, Mrs. John Ketchum; Presbyterian, Mrs. H.E. Monroe; Methodist, A.D. Jordan; Lutheran, Anna Klein; Catholic, Rev. Fr. Burk; and E. C. Silliman were selected. The first officers were: President, Mrs. H.E. Monroe; Vice President, Mr. E.C. Silliman; Secretary, Mrs. John Ketcham; and Treasurer, A.D. Jordan.

The Chenoa Public Library become a District Library in April 1, 2002

The library at first was financed by dues of the library association, benefit entertainment by various social and school organizations, popular subscription and tag day. Later in 1942 a tax levy was voted by the township. The library was open to the public in September 1913, with about 2000 books ready to be used. The first librarian was Mrs. Ida I. Lord, who filled the position for 16 years. She resigned due to ill health. The library building was built in 1862 by the Presbyterian Church.

The Chenoa Public Library became a District Library, April 1, 2002.

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