Unintentionally (by me) this third featured library has managed to marry the modernity of Princeton Public Library with the traditional(ness) exhibited by Neilsen Hays Library, providing an exemplary example for other libraries that hope to update for the future. T.B. Scott Free Library, located in Merrill, Wisconsin [population 10,145], is a gem in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.
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A view of T.B. Scott Library.
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Merrill is a town of registered historical buildings and the library is no exception. T.B. Scott Library, a Wisconsin Register Landmark, opened its doors March 25, 1891, supported by WI state legislator T. B. Scott's bequest of $10,000 and later sustained by a substantial Andrew Carniege grant. It sits next to a river and often becomes pleasantly full with teenagers when the neighboring middle school concludes its school day.
Because Merrill is a one-library town TB Scott Free Library makes sure to fulfill all possible needs: private one-person study rooms and group study rooms, a fascinating Genealogy & History Room where patrons can purchase amazingly
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A section of the original 1891 one-room library.
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in-depth pamphlets on the history of the Library and the town for only 50 cents, a special children's storytime room illustrated by a colorful mural, and so forth. Of course the three-floor library is well-stocked with books and DVDs for check out but this is one library that remains a village center. Local artifacts, collections and crafts are displayed in the Andrew Carniege wing (which also denotes the original one-room library). Computers with internet access sit on the top floor, and are illuminated by daytime sunlight streaming through both the skylights and the wall of windows overlooking the nearby river and forested park.
This is possibly one of my favorite libraries ever not only because it is a pillar of excellence in the middle of 'nowhere' or because it shows that libraries can be updated without losing personality and becoming sterile, but because of personal reasons: My mother grew up using this library. This was her and her seven siblings' haven away from the farmhouse. And despite several decades and varying distances separating them from their childhood days, I am inclined to agree when they all maintain that this is the best library you will ever find.
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YA area.
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Library Hours
From Tuesday after Labor Day until Friday before Memorial Day
9 am - 8 pm Monday through Thursday.
9 am - 5:00 pm Friday.
9 am - 5:00 pm Saturday.
Summer Hours: From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
9 am - 8 pm Monday through Thursday.
9 am - 5:00 pm Friday.
9 am - Noon Saturday
Address & Contact Numbers
106 W. First St.; Merrill, WI 54452
Tel: 715-536-7191
http://wvls.lib.wi.us/merrillpl/
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Entrance to T.B. Scott Free Library
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Bibliography:
Historical Facts from "The Story of T.B. Scott Free Library: The First Fifty Years" by Beatrice Lebal
Photos by Cressida Hanson
Soapbox Article by Cressida Hanson
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