In 2026, the Richland Public Library celebrates two very special anniversaries!

On April 29, 1951 the Richland Public Library opened to residents of this community. It was met with great fanfare as over 1,300 library cards were issued that first day. Since then, the Richland Public Library has been a critical component of life in Richland. In 2026, we celebrate our 75th anniversary. We will commemorate this throughout all of 2026 with programs, services, celebrations, and more. Come be a part of the festivities as we remember the past and look forward to the future. 

America is celebrating 250 years this July! Throughout the year, the City of Richland will look to commemorate this occasion with engagement opportunities.

Public libraries are an American story that started in 1790 with the town of Franklin opening the first public library with a collection of books donated by Benjamin Franklin. Tax-supported libraries got their start with Peterborough, New Hampshire in 1833 and the first major tax-supported public library opening in Boston in 1854. Since then, this model of public library flourished throughout the country and the world, led by American figures like Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie was quoted as saying: "There is not such a cradle of democracy upon the earth as the Free Public Library, this republic of letters, where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives the slightest consideration."

For updates on America 250 events, see our dedicated City of Richland site.

Upcoming Highlights 

75th Anniversary Summer Reading Program

Participate in this year's 75th anniversary themed Summer Reading Program and win prizes! You can sign up through Beanstack starting in June.

75th Anniversary Commemorative Film

Watch this short film about the history and culture of the Richland Public Library.

Historic Library Photos

View historic photos of the Richland Public Library in this online collection.

2009 Library Renovation Blog

Revisit the process of renovating our library through the blog we published at the time.