Did you know that Willoughby Library is one of approximately 2,000 “Carnegie Libraries” in the world? Or did anyone in your family have to walk through a tunnel under Lakeshore Blvd. to get to Willowick Library?  The Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library System is celebrating its 100th birthday in 2009, and like most centenarians, the Library has many stories to be told.

The Library began in 1871 with 32 members of a “circulating library society.” Members paid 5 cents per book, per week to borrow. Later, Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish immigrant who believed libraries were key in helping anyone become successful regardless of their means, donated $14,500 to help establish the Willoughby Library in the center of the village. Since then, the System has grown to include four branches serving the communities of Eastlake, Lakeline, Timberlake, Waite Hill, Willoughby, Willoughby Hills, and Willowick.

The Library is planning several events in 2009 to mark the Centennial, including a program on the Carnegie Libraries April 11, a month-long scavenger hunt this summer, trivia contests, and an Open House at Willoughby Library in August. Stay tuned for dates and details.

As Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library celebrates its past, we are here to serve you now and in the future.