The Lewiston Public Library began in 1901 when the Men's Club of Lewiston held a New Year's Party and asked each person in attendance to bring two books. Vice President Theodore Roosevelt, invited but unable to attend, sent an autographed copy of his book on Oliver Cromwell. This book is still on display in the Local History Room. When the new Library was dedicated in 1991, former U.S. Presidents Ford, Carter, Nixon, and Reagan sent autographed copies of their book to add to this collection. Chartered as a Free Library in 1902, support was maintained by public subscription with members of the Lewiston Service Guild collecting door-to-door for operating funds. As Library use increased, the Trustees recognized that a dedicated source of funding was needed to maintain standards and allow for continued growth. In 1976 this funding was secured with the approval of a Public Library Charter and the Library is now supported by tax dollars.

The Library has been located in many different buildings in the community. It was first housed in the present Quote and Quill, then moved to the Hotchkiss General Store, now DiCamillo Bakery, and in 1961 moved to the Hotchkiss building, commonly known as the Long House. In 1990 the Library moved to the present site at 305 South Eighth Street. In 1999 a new children's wing was added.