Apr 9th
Wood County District Public Library can trace its beginnings back to the formation of the Bowling Green Library Association in 1875. The original collection of books was few and precious, and patrons needed to purchase subscriptions for five dollars that allowed them to borrow one book per visit. By 1914, the collection of books had reached 300, and the subscription price had dropped to one dollar.
The library has gone through a number of location changes over the years, but in 1974 it moved into a new building at its current location at 251 N. Main Street in downtown Bowling Green. Nearly thirty years later, in 2003, the facility underwent major renovations and reopened with a new second floor, a grand central stairway and lobby, an atrium, a technology lab, a teen space, a children’s center, and a career center, among other improvements.
For many years now the Library services have been free for Ohio residents and available to all ages. Only a library card is necessary, which can be issued at the library's check out counter. (A photo ID with a name and current address is required.) Some of the resources available for checkout include books, newspapers, movies, music and audio books.
On the first floor activities, games and homework help are offered in the Children's Place area. Youth Services Director, Kathy East, says that the library is a "strong advocate for early literacy," so it invests time and energy in teaching children from day one. Children can also be involved in weekly, seasonal, and special occasion activities that are offered.
