McHenry Public Library

Specialties

We provide books, magazines, DVDs and Blurays, music and audiobook CDs, computer and video console games for adults and children + in-​home accessible electronic resources, downloadable audiobooks, videos and ebooks. We also provide Nook eReaders for circulation and in-​house use. 3 study rooms, 1 conference room + 2 large meeting rooms for group use (call for reservations). 45 computers for public access with printing available, FAX machine, on-​site reference/reader’s advisory service, e-​mail and messaging reference service + programming for adults and children. Local history and genealogy room. We specialize in exceeding the customer’s expectations.

History

Established in 1936.

A Brief History of the McHenry Public Library

1836

McHenry was settled.

August 10, 1872

McHenry was incorporated as a village.

May 15, 1923

McHenry was incorporated as a city.

February 27, 1936

A small lending library opened in a room of the McHenry High School, presently McHenry East High School. The idea for the library was fostered by Mrs. C. W. (Gretta) Goodell with the support of the McHenry Mothers’ Club, later known as the McHenry Woman’s Club.

The library moved to the city hall after a few years when the High School needed the space the library was using.

June 7, 1943

The McHenry City Council adopted an ordinance establishing the McHenry Public Library. Mrs. Goodell served as chairman of the library board with Mrs. C. J. Reihansperger serving as secretary-​treasurer. Mrs. Goodell served as library director until 1960. Mrs. Lon Smith, Miss Rita Martin, and Mrs. Robert Winkel assisted her.

January 1946

McHenry Mayor R. I. Overton appointed the first library board. The nine members