Our History

Efforts to establish library service in Monessen began as early as 1908, when community leaders explored the idea of a local branch of the Braddock Carnegie Library. While that proposal never came to fruition, it set the stage for future action.

In 1935, during the New Deal era, a small but important step was taken when a 200‑volume library opened at Monessen High School. Open evenings for public use, it demonstrated both demand and local commitment.

On January 8, 1936, a voluntary committee presented a formal petition to Monessen City Council for funds to maintain a library for Monessen citizens. Members of the committee were Wade Blackburn, Mrs. J. Karl Beery and Harry R. Pore. Council directed that $1000 be listed in the city budget. An open meeting to form a library was called, which resulted in the appointment of a board of directors, officers and committee members. The group then began a campaign to get charter members for the library association. Nine people began the drive by contributing $100 each, with 110 other members contributing $10 or more. Mrs. Martha Jane Bloom Whitsett was appointed librarian to be aided by helpers from the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Women’s clubs, fraternal societies and churches joined with the Chamber of Commerce to set up a permanent organization to finance, locate and provide a free public library. Three rooms on the second floor of the Barker Building at the corner of Donner and Sixth were rented.

On May 1, 1936, Monessen Public Library officially opened its doors. Supported by a citizen‑led funding campaign and City Council approval, the Library began service in the Barker Building with 1,234 donated books.

From the start, the Library was shaped by volunteers, civic organizations, and a shared belief that free access to information mattered.

As use and collections expanded, the Library relocated to 112 Fifth Street in 1944. Continued growth soon required a larger, permanent home.

In 1959, with help from local students who formed a “book brigade,” the Library moved to its current location at 326 Donner Avenue—where it remains today.

In 1962, the Library was designated a Pennsylvania District Center, expanding its role beyond Monessen to support surrounding communities with enhanced services.

After nearly five decades as a District Center, the Library transitioned away from that designation in 2011, refocusing its mission on direct, community‑based public library service.

On May 1, 2026, Monessen Public Library will celebrate its 90th anniversary! Today, the Library continues to evolve—offering programs, technology, and collections that reflect both tradition and changing community needs.

Watch a short video highlighting key moments, memories, and milestones from the Library’s history.