History
The History of Mattoon Public Library
The Mattoon Public Library was established in 1893 by a group of dedicated local citizens. In 1903, the Library moved into its current building, where it continues to serve the community today. Visitors can still explore the Library’s original style in the historic 1903 Room, which is available to reserve for events and meetings.
A Carnegie Library in Central Illinois
The Library was constructed with funds from Andrew Carnegie, making it one of the many Carnegie libraries built across central Illinois. Carnegie believed strongly in the power of self-education and saw libraries as essential places where anyone could improve their lives through learning.
The stairs leading to the main entrances symbolize this philosophy of self-improvement and the idea of “lifting oneself up.”
1995 Renovation and Expansion
In 1995, an addition was built to expand the Library. Those involved in the renovation worked to preserve the character and style of the original structure. Unlike many other Carnegie library renovations, this addition was designed to closely match the 1903 architecture—so closely, in fact, that it can be difficult to tell where the old building ends and the new begins.
This expansion also enabled the Library to meet accessibility guidelines under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Local History Center
The Local History Center is located on the basement and lower basement levels. The basement level is a 6-room museum-type setting that traces Mattoon history from the community’s roots to present day. There are displays on business development, Mattoon’s role in the Civil War, railroads, residential developments, schools, and much more. Most all first-time visitors comment that “I had no idea,” about how extensive and interesting, thorough and interesting they find the displays, which also are highlighted at www.mattoonhistorycenter.org. The center is typically staffed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays with an hour for lunch, or from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays and also by appointment.
Local History CenterDiscover the Story of Mattoon’s 1914 “Big Dig”
In 1914, Mattoon undertook one of the most ambitious construction projects in its history: lowering the Illinois Central Railroad tracks through the city. Known locally as “The Big Dig,” the project reshaped downtown and changed how the community moved and grew. History Center curator Chris Suerdieck wrote a book about the project, which is available at the library’s front desk or by ordering online using this link The Big Dig – Mattoon Public Library.
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