Our History

The Vernon Library was founded in 1928 by the Vernon Woman’s Club. The Library consisted of a donated bookcase and books which were housed in the Village Hall. It was run entirely by volunteers from the Woman’s Club.

In 1945, Rhoda Hopkins was appointed Librarian, assisted by high school girls and later by Rev. Merle Townsend.

In 1968, the Library gained District status and changed its name to the Vernon District Public Library. Ownership of the Library passed from the Woman’s Club to Vernon Township. With this change came so many book donations that more space was required. On advice from the State, the Tithof building was rented to house the VDPL. Mrs. Geraldine Jones was hired as Assistant Librarian.

Then in 1972, work began remodeling the interior of the former gas station at the corner of Maple and Main Street. Louis Goward took over as Librarian in 1976. This warm, welcoming library was a cornerstone, beloved by the community for more than three decades.

As donations began to pile up, it became clear the library in Vernon had outgrown its space once again. In 2005, a massive fundraising campaign began in order to construct a new library building. On May 9, 2006, construction at the site began! It would be 2 more years of fundraising and considerable volunteer support before the newly constructed 5,500 sq. ft. library opened to the public. The larger space allowed us to offer a wide range of unique programming and events as well as 12 public computers! In 2008, Cheryl Davenport became Library Director when Louis Goward retired.

In 2021, Cheryl Davenport retired and the title of Library Director passed to JoAnna Lincoln-Freouf.

Today, the Vernon District Public Library stands as a testament to the lasting love of literacy held by Vernon Residents. We welcome you to stay awhile and learn just what makes this place so special!