Address: 727 Mulberry Street Mt. Carmel, IL 62863
Phone: 618-263-3531
The Mount Carmel Public Library has been bringing stories, knowledge, and community together for more than a century.
Our story began in 1909 when a determined group of local women from the Reviewers’ Matinee set out to give Mt. Carmel a public library. Led by President Mrs. J.M. Mitchell and library committee chair Mrs. Ada Wallace, one of the founding members of Reviewers’ Matinee, these passionate citizens partnered with city leaders and rallied community support to secure funding from Andrew Carnegie’s famous library program. Reviewers’ Matinee was founded in 1894 by Marie J. Petitdidier, Lydia Ann Hughes, Ada E. Wallace, Hattie M. Phillips, Sara E.G. Bell, Josephine T. Lee, and Lousie R. Shellenberger.
In January 1910, the Reviewers’ Matinee purchased land from the Methodist Church and generously donated it to the City. Thanks to their efforts and the support of countless community members, the original Carnegie Library at 120 East 5th Street opened its doors to the public in December 1911, with Miss Anna Hughes serving as the library’s very first librarian.
For nearly 60 years, the Carnegie Library faithfully served Mt. Carmel. But as our collection and community continued to grow, so did the need for more space. In the late 1960s, land was purchased at 8th and Mulberry Streets, and through a remarkable combination of local generosity, state support, and a trust established by a former librarian, a new chapter began.
Construction on our current home started in 1969, and in August 1970 the new Mt. Carmel Public Library opened at 727 Mulberry Street.
More than 100 years after those first determined citizens (women) dreamed of a public library, we continue their mission … providing free access to information, lifelong learning, and a welcoming place for everyone in Mt. Carmel and Wabash County.