Westmont Public Library

It has been said that the quality of a town may be measured by its library. Many years ago, the people of Westmont realized the importance of a public library. As early as 1925 Everett Lincoln Meservey personally collected books and a 25-cent monthly charge by going door to door to start the first library collection. These books were kept in the Community Press Building. During the 1930's WPA (Works Progress Administration) funds were received to expand the library and it was moved to the Hoffman Building. Mrs. Velma Evans became the first librarian.

In 1943 the Village Board voted to support the Library with tax revenues and the first Library Board was elected. Mr. C.E. Miller was the first President of this Board, and it included Pearl Elsing, Carolyn Barton, E.H. Petty, Caroline Townsend and June Goodlow. The library was located at 22 W. Burlington. Alex N. Buro, Michael A. Levgard and Warren Beardsley would become most strongly associated with the Library for almost 25 years.

By the late fifties it was decided to provide a permanent building for the Library. In 1959 the American Legion Post 338 donated land next to Memorial Park at Richmond and Linden Streets and, with a concerted campaign, the voters passed the bond issue for the building.