maroon_shape
620 E. Main St., Niles, MI 49120
Vintage Photo of Children in Library
  • More than 25,000 visitors served each year
  • Collection exceeding 89,000 books, DVDs and more
  • Library of Things offering instruments, games, houshold tools and more
  • Access to a vast digital collection via Hoopla & Libby
  • Hundreds of free programs each year, for everyone from toddlers to seniors
  • Traditional library programs — storytime, computer classes, book clubs, etc.
  • Contemporary programs such as gaming, concerts, art programs and more
In 1881, the Ladies Library Association was the first group to try to bring a library to the Niles community; they set up a reading room and lending library in a local office. 

Then located at the corner of Main & Fourth, the Niles Public Library housed approximately 5,000 volumes.

 

Beginning in 1902, the Ladies’ Library Association began efforts to secure a public library for the City of Niles. A committee comprised of four Association members communicated with Andrew Carnegie to secure funding for a public library building. Carnegie donated $15,000 for the construction of the library building. The Federation of Women’s Clubs, private donors and the city raised funds for furnishing and staff.

Construction was completed in the summer of 1904 and formally opened to the public November 17, 1904.

 
In 1963, the new Niles Library building, funded by local philanthropist Jennie Plym, opened on the corner of Main and 7th streets.

 

As part of the ever-expanding community need for essential library services, construction in 1974 included the addition of a Children’s Room.
 
Construction in 1998 included an addition to the existing library building. This addition now encompasses the Checkout Desk and Circulation office, Children’s & Young Adult stacks, Patti’s Place, and Administration offices.

On May 1, 2002, the Niles District Library establishment came into effect. Born of an agreement between both the City of Niles and Niles Township, the service offerings of the library were expanded to benefit residents of both municipalities.