History

The public library was established officially in 1928 and was originally named for it's generous supporter and patron, Esther Washburn. One of the first "subscription libraries" in the state was started in the 1840's in Tremont, but this later folded. A library started by the local Women's Club in the early 1900's was the foundation for the public library.

In 1972, the library moved from it's location at 117 S. Sampson to 213 S. Sampson. An addition was built in 1977. In 1991, the library name was legally changed to the Tremont District Library to avoid confusion with the Washburn Public Library. The reading area of the
library was designated the Esther Washburn Reading Room and a plaque was placed on the wall in memory of Esther Washburn.


The Tremont District Library expanded it's boundaries in 1993 to include the Tremont School District 702. The present building program began in 1995 with building consultant Robert Plotzke. A construction
grant was applied for in the fall of 1996 and construction began in September 1997.