The Oskaloosa Public Library opened in 1903. This was thanks in part to the combined efforts of a local women's club and a Carnegie donation, similar to the respective stories of the Knoxville Public Library and our own library.
In 1996, the library underwent an expansion and renovation that brought it to its current 15,000 square footage. This project was unique, with the architects making a great effort to ensure that interior and exterior elements like wood and brickwork matched those of the original Carnegie building. Thanks to their attention to detail, many library visitors do not even notice the difference when they visit.
The Oskaloosa Public Library has amenities like:
- a large reading area
- book club sets of popular and classic titles
- a seed library where patrons can "check out" fruit, vegetable, and herb seeds and contribute some of their own
- a designated librarian workstation and a separate circulation desk
- a self-checkout service counter
- a permanent and rotating Staff Picks display
- a large audiobooks section
- a designated genealogy and local history room in the original Carnegie building
- a Library of Things display with a complete inventory list of items available for checkout
- front-facing shelves for increased book circulation and visibility
- one conference room with a media projector and 15-person capacity
- two meeting rooms
- a kitchenette with a microwave, sink, and refrigerator
- a designated youth program room
- a designated youth play space
- low shelves for easier patron access and improved librarian sightlines
- interactive patron murals
- a designated juvenile computer space
- dynamic shelving with wheels for easy reconfiguration
- a makerspace area, including the following items available for patron use: rock tumbler, Cricut, laminator, book binder, button maker, die cut machine, 3D printer, Glowforge laser printer, sewing machine, ironing board, iron, cutting mat, and accessories.
- a large Teen Space with comfortable seating, recommended book displays, substantial collection space, and charging stations for mobile devices.
- designated staff workspaces separate from the main library floor
- designated and accessible library storage
- a designated book repair station with necessary book mending supplies
- additional library storage
- a designated librarian breakroom with a sink, microwave, coffee maker, and dishwasher
- a memorial and donations pathway
- a large reading garden with an amphitheater and additional outdoor seating
Why They Expanded and Fun Facts
The Oskaloosa Public Library expanded to make room for a larger collection and an expanded children and teen department. This library has another unique feature: a time capsule. Inside the time capsule are items like vintage postcards, books, and even human finger bones. Mark your calendars for September 14, 2103 to see them open it!