Willard Library of Evansville, Indiana

Willard Library opened in 1885 and is the State of Indiana’s oldest public library building.

Built in the Victorian Gothic style, Willard retains its charm as an historic building, inside and out, while framing modern public library services. Referred to by some as “History’s Candy Store”, Willard is known for its friendly staff; extensive genealogy and local history collections; exciting programs delivered to children and adults; rotating historical exhibits; semi-permanent exhibits of Evansville history and library history; a permanent exhibit of the extremely rare, full set of folio books, The Indian Tribes of North America published in the late 1830’s; a 3.5 acre, landscaped park; and is home to the Grey Lady, the world’s most famous library ghost.

Since 1885, Willard Library has been open to all people, free of charge and invites you to visit and explore the past and build the future. Willard Library is open 7-days a week except for major holidays. Free WiFi inside the library and in the library park.