The Arcadia Free Public Library first opened its doors to the public on July 25, 1899, in a single room on the second floor of the village hall. From those humble beginnings, the library quickly became a cornerstone of the community—offering knowledge, connection, and opportunity to the people of Arcadia.
In 1905, the City of Arcadia was awarded a $5,000 grant from pioneering philanthropist Andrew Carnegie (1835–1919), who funded 1,689 libraries across the United States between 1883 and 1929. Believing libraries to be “ladders” for self-improvement, Carnegie helped make free access to information a reality for communities nationwide. The Arcadia Public Library was one of 1,681 U.S. libraries to receive Carnegie funding. On November 1, 1906, the new Carnegie library building opened at 406 E. Main Street, providing a permanent home dedicated to learning and growth.
The library’s collection reflects more than a century of steady growth. According to the annual report of June 30, 1908, the library owned 1,647 volumes. By 1934, that number had grown to 2,761 volumes. In December 2025, the collection expanded to more than 18,000 volumes, demonstrating the community’s continued commitment to literacy and lifelong learning.
In spring 2020, thanks to generous donations from the Wanek Family and many community members, along with financial support from the City of Arcadia, the library moved to its new home inside the Wanek Center. Arcadia Public Library continues its proud tradition of service—offering free access to books, technology, programs, and resources for everyone.
