Washington Public Library

LibrariesIowa, United States11-50 Employees

Washington Free Public library believes in the freedom to read and learn, and the freedom to compare and express ideas. WFPL strives to provide educational, cultural and social enrichment for all residents of the city of Washington and surrounding areas. The Washington Public Library was established by a group of dedicated volunteers in 1877 with a combination of private donations of money and books and a small public tax. Many of the original books held by the Washington Public Library came from the private collection of Gen. Hiram Scofield, a civil war general from who lived in Washington and held one of the largest private libraries in the nation. After his death his personal library was split between the cities of Washington and Wellman. In 1901 Jane A. Chilcote, widow of Dr. Alexander Chilcote, bequeathed her house at 120 E. Main to the City of Washington to use as a public library. In her honor, the library was affectionately known as the Jane A. Chilcote Library for many years. Original portraits of both Jane and Alexander Chilcote can be seen on the second floor of the public library, behind the information desk. After outgrowing the space on Main Street the Library opened in its new facility at 115 W. Washington on October 1, 2009. Today the Library enjoys increased use in many forms. We offer materials for check-out, programs for the public, and meeting room space for all, along with many other services. In 2009 the Library won a Best New Construction award from Main Street Iowa, and the Library became LEED certified in 2011. The Library continues to expand in various ways including our Spanish language collection, extended programming for all ages, and continuing pursuit of technological advances in circulation, materials, and information access. Our goal is to continue to serve Southeast Iowa well into the 21st century!

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