Des Moines IA, City Library, 1960s

 

Beginnings: The Des Moines Public Library system traces its roots to 1866, when the Des Moines Library Association was formed. The goal was to establish a public library for the city's growing population.

First Library: The first library building, funded by local residents, opened in 1886. It was a modest facility, but as the city grew, so did the demand for library services.