Clark County Library

The Clark County Library is one of the oldest library buildings in Arkansas, and is representative of early efforts to establish libraries in the state. On November 11, 1897, about thirty Arkadelphia women banded together to form the Woman's Library Association. Their goal was to establish a public library in Arkadelphia, and within six years this goal was achieved. The vision of these determined women was translated into the brick and mortar of a beautiful public building. The Woman's Library Association began its collection of books with donations from members and local citizens. The books were stored in the association president's home, and later moved to rent-free space downtown. By 1899 the Association was forced to rent space for its book collection. At this time the library building fund began. Through money-raising events such as oyster suppers, bazaars, spelling bees, and fiddlers' contests, about $1,000.00 was raised. In 1903, a loan was secured and construction of a library building began. During the ten years following its opening, money-raising activities continued to pay off the library building loan. The most significant event occurred in 1905 when William Jennings Bryan gave a benefit lecture for the library. By 1913 the debt was fully paid. Designed by architect Charles L. Thompson of Little Rock, the library was built by James Pullen. An oversized portico with ionic columns mark the facade of this one-story red brick structure. The Clark County Library was completed in 1903, and remains intact today as an example of early twentieth century institutional architecture in Arkansas. Throughout its history the Clark County Library has served other than just the academic needs of the Arkadelphia community. It has often been used for recitals, by church and civic groups, and for public meetings. During World War I it was converted to a Red Cross workshop filled with cutting tables and sewing machines. From its 1903 opening until 1939, the library was owned and operated by the Woman's Library Association; however, in the latter year, the building and its contents were donated to the city. In 1974 the deed was transferred to the Clark County Library Board, enabling the library to better server the entire county. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.