Goderich Branch, Huron County Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Goderich Branch, Huron County Library |
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| Postcard showing the library in 1910 | |
| Country | Canada |
| Type | Public |
| Location | 52 Montreal Street, Goderich, ON N7A 2G4 |
| Coordinates | 43°44′31″N 81°42′47″W / 43.74199°N 81.71302°W |
| Branch of | Huron County Library |
| Official name: Goderich Public Library | |
| Designated: | 1978 |
The Goderich Public Library is an important part of the Huron County Library system. It is located in the town of Goderich, in the province of Ontario, Canada. This library has a long and interesting history, serving its community for over a century.
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A Look Back: Library History
Before the current building, Goderich had a place called a Mechanics' Institute since 1853. These institutes were like early libraries. They helped working people learn and read. They offered books, lectures, and classes.
Building a New Library
In 1902, something exciting happened! The library received a large gift of $10,000. This money came from the Carnegie Foundation. This foundation was started by Andrew Carnegie, a very rich businessman. He believed in giving money to build public libraries.
With this gift, construction began on a new library building. It was built between 1903 and 1904. The famous architect J.A. Fowler designed the building. The library officially opened its doors on March 3, 1905. It is still used as a library today!
Unique Design and Construction
The Goderich Library building has a very special shape. It is built on a triangular piece of land. Architect J.A. Fowler created a unique design to fit this space. He planned a red brick building in the Romanesque style. This style often features strong, rounded arches and sturdy walls.
The design included two towers and large, rounded windows. It also had high ceilings inside. There were even living quarters for the librarian on the top floor! The largest tower is round and stands at the corner of Montreal and Lighthouse Streets. It has a special reading room inside. The other two towers are square.
The building was finished in 1905. For many years, the upper rooms were used for different purposes. They served as a museum and stored town records. This continued until the Huron County Museum was created in 1934. The library has had to close a few times over the years. This happened during health outbreaks in 1907 and 1920. It also closed due to a lack of fuel in 1920.
This historic building is very important. It is protected under the Ontario Heritage Act. This means its unique design and history are preserved for the future.
Early Library Services
In 1913, the library introduced a new service. Users could pay 5 cents to reserve a book. When the book was ready, they would get a postcard. Then they had three days to pick up their book. This reservation system was very popular. Other big cities in Ontario, like Stratford and Toronto, also used it.
The Library's Role in the Community
The Goderich Public Library played a big role in creating the wider library system. On September 19, 1941, a meeting was held there. This meeting led to the creation of the Huron County Library Association. This group aimed to bring library services to everyone in the county. It helped libraries work together.
Today, the Goderich Public Library continues to be a vital community hub. It offers books, resources, and programs for people of all ages.
