MISSION & HISTORY OF THE LIBRARY




Mission


The Sidney Public Library promotes the love of reading and the joy of discover for persons of all ages, provides information and learning resources in a variety of formats for both education and leisure, and prepares our patrons for the challenges and opportunities in the lifelong quest for knowledge in the information age.



History


The Sidney Richland County Library had its first home in the basement of the Yellowstone Merc. building. Mrs. Earl Verco checked out the first book to the public in 1914. The ladies of the Sidney Women's club formed a study club and from this group the idea was born to donate books and start a library. When the venture proved successful the group urged the City council to take over the responsibility, which they did.

Through the years the library struggled with a very low budget. Eventually, the Women's Club again went into action and circulated a petition to make it a City - County Library. This move was approved and it became the Sidney Public Library, financed by city and county taxes. It is still financed in this manner.

The Library has had several homes. The present building was completed in 1966. In addition the library houses the Civil Defense rooms, a meeting room and offices. The building is owned by Richland County.

In 1985 the Commissioners realized the need for expansion. An LSCA grant was applied for through the Montana State Library. The grand of $61,000.00 was approved. Richland County supplied the matching funds for the addition.

A endowment fund has been established for contributions to the library. These gifts are tax deductible.