Anaheim Library - Library History: 1907-1959

Library History: 1907-1959

| 1872-1907 | 1907-1959 | 1960-1997 | 2002-present |

Carnegie Library (now the Anaheim Museum)

Dec 1907	Library board accepts architectural plans of John Austin of Los Angeles. City trustees reject plan and advertise for additional architects.
Jan 1908	Library board again loses Austin after reviewing four resubmitted plans. Miss Jean Adams appointed librarian of the new location.
Feb 1908	Austin plans approved by City Trustees.
June 1908	Kuechel and Rowley of Orange chosen contractors when their bid is revised to $9,589, below the 10,000 limit of the grant.
Nov 1908	Cornerstone was laid at dedication of the building.
Jan 1, 1909	Anaheim Public Library's Carnegie Building was opened to the public for the first time.
Sept 1911	Library benefit held at the Opera House.
July 1917	Flag pole installed
Aug 1925	A juvenile department included in next year's expenses. Elva Haskett is hired as the first Children's Librarian.
Nov 1925	21,405 books in the library.
1929	Elva Haskett introduces Pinocchio to the children.
Feb 1932	Plans completed move the "Junior Library" to the basement.
March 1933	Earthquake causes damage to roof tiles and chimney.
March 1938	Floods damage the city and library and Pinnochio is lost in the flood waters.
July 1940	Using a cart equipped with book racks, librarian Calnon takes books to the park.
July 1951	Restless young boys start a fire in the restroom, prompting Fire Chief, Ed Stringer to begin the first Junior Fire Prevention Program.
1951-1952	Phonograph record Iibrary established. Only long playing records in the collection. Circulation reports show 121,105 materials circulated (adults), 49,097 (Junior)
May 1956	City authorizes purchase of new site for Central Library (Vineyard Lot F6)
1957	The Library held the initial celebration of Anaheim's Centennial 1857-1957). A reception, sponsored the Anaheim Doll Club, honored pioneer families.
Aug 1, 1957	William J. Griffith is appointed City Librarian.
Feb 1958	Funds obtained for acquisition of a bookmobile.
Feb 1959	Bookmobile celebrates its first year of service. Circulation: 54,505.

| 1872-1907 | 1907-1959 | 1960-1997 | 2002-present |