Five women’s clubs start a subscription library
Tyler’s public library began in 1899 as a subscription library founded by five women’s clubs and was converted to a free public library by 1901.
Hetty M. B. Sherwin of Jamestown, New York, was the first librarian, and in 1904 the library moved into its own quarters in the new Carnegie Library.
Note
The city’s National Register documentation records that the library’s goal was to make books available to all “[white]” citizens.
Sources
- National Register Multiple Property Documentation Form: Historic and Architectural Resources of Tyler, Texas (Diane E. Williams, 2000; THC Atlas)atlas.thc.texas.gov
Tyler's public library had its beginning 1899 as a subscription library founded by five women's' clubs
By 1901 it was converted to a free public library.
Sherwin of Jamestown, New York was the first librarian
the public library moved into its own quarters in 1904 upon completion of the Classical Revival style Carnegie Library
Checked October 15, 2026. How the cards are filed