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."

We will post anniversary highlights on this page as they are planned so you can join in the fun as we celebrate America and our library as part of this uniquely American institution!

Upcoming Highlights

Library Carty Party - Saturday, January 31, 2:00-3:30pm

Did you know that the library STILL has a handful of the ORIGINAL library carts from 75 years ago that are still in working order? So in honor of our 75th anniversary this year, we're doing a Cart Decoration Party, or "Carty Party" if you will...

Bring your friends or family to form a decoration team. Your mission will be to decorate AND NAME your team's cart. The winning cart will be featured in a display featuring our original 1951 vintage carts!

Black History Month Reading Challenge - February 1-28

Celebrate part of American history with RPL! Every February, we pay tribute to generations of African Americans by celebrating Black History Month. Join us this February by logging your reading and earning themed badges with the Richland Public Library. Complete the challenge and earn tickets for a drawing for a Black History Month poster!

Historic Library Photos

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