History

Bayfield Carnegie Library. ca. 1910

Only ten years after Bayfield was founded, the first library was established as a free Reading Room in 1857, signaling the community's early commitment to knowledge and the free exchange of information. Work on the grand structure we still use as our community's library began a hundred years ago when Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie provided $10,000 to the Bayfield Library Board. Architect Henry WildHagen designed the Greek Revival-style building with the striking Ionic columns of locally quarried brownstone.

Dog sled in front of the library. ca. 1910

The Bayfield Carnegie Library opened its doors January 10, 1904. As the economy of Bayfield experienced periods of prosperity and decline over the years, so did the status of the library. But always a group of citizens persevered to support he library, from the Junior Civic League and local patrons to hardworking librarians and library board members.

Library circulation has increased from 3,000 in 1978 to more than 25,000. The library is a member of the Northern Waters Library Service, extending its resources to include that of 30 other libraries. With the recent improvements of the addition of space in the lower level, implementation of the Internet service and expansion of staff time, the library continues to adopt to meet the needs of the community.

Librarian Winnie Robinson, 1909 - 1929.

Junior Civic League
1957 "Gymnastics" Class Taught by Norma Chape.
From left to right: Ann Moody, Mary Hauser, Mert Weborg, Mrs. Berger, Ole Cahill, Alma Waskow, Martha Barningham, Bobby Durham, and Norma Chape.

Librarian Agnes Bodin, late 1960's.

Librarian Lois Albrecht reads to youngsters during storytime at the Bayfield Library (1978).

Hope Atkinson, Librarian (left), and Ann Bowker, a founder of the Apple Blossom Run (right), display awards for the 1984 Apple Blossom Run.