The Winona Public Library building marked its 125th anniversary with a celebration organized by the Friends of the Winona Public Library, drawing over 100 attendees. The event featured a screening of a documentary by local documentarian Mary Farrell, inspired by the novel “Laird’s Legacy: A History of the Winona Public Library.” The library, constructed in 1899 by William Harris Laird, stands as the oldest library in the state of Minnesota.
The library’s founder, Laird, gifted the building to the city of Winona, and its enduring presence has made it a cherished and historical institution. The celebration brought together community members who emphasized the library’s continued significance. Lezlea Dahlke, the director of library services for the Winona Public Library, expressed pride in being part of the institution and commended the dedicated library staff for their stewardship. Dahlke highlighted the library’s role as a community hub, serving as a vital resource and a beacon for many individuals.
The library’s rich history, spanning over a century, resonates with locals who recognize it as a cultural and educational cornerstone. The celebration included a screening of the documentary, offering attendees a glimpse into the library’s evolution and impact on the community. For those interested in joining the commemoration, additional showtimes for the documentary were scheduled on Thursday, January 25th at 7 pm and Saturday, January 27th at 11 am, providing more opportunities for the community to come together and appreciate the enduring legacy of the Winona Public Library.
original post at WKBT News 8