The Cranbrook Public Library in British Columbia has reached a major milestone, celebrating 100 years of serving the local community. The library, located in the East Kootenay city, opened its doors on July 4, 1925, with a small collection of donated books and just 95 members. Today, it serves more than 10,000 registered members.
The library received warm messages from prominent authors to mark its centennial. Simon Tolkien, historical fiction writer and grandson of Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien, sent a video greeting. He praised the library’s journey from modest beginnings to its current status as a thriving community hub.
“Congratulations to you all on this wonderful occasion,” Tolkien said, highlighting the library’s growth and ongoing importance. Other celebrated authors, including Louise Penny, Ann Patchett, and John Grisham, also extended their congratulations.
Mike Selby, deputy director of the library, recalled that the first book checked out belonged to the city’s mayor. Over the decades, the library has seen significant changes, from the move to a larger building in the late 1950s to adapting to modern technology and the growing demand for books.
The library has also faced its share of controversy. In 1939, a patron destroyed a copy of John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, claiming it was inappropriate. The library board reprimanded the individual, emphasizing that members were not to act as censors.
Despite challenges, the library has remained committed to providing free access to literature and information. Selby, who has worked at Cranbrook Library for nearly twenty years, said the community’s dedication has been key to its longevity.
“To have that go for 100 years is really something special,” he said.
The centennial celebration included a public open house, where volunteers served cake and refreshments to residents. Gold balloons spelling out “100” decorated the shelves, symbolizing a century of knowledge and service.
B.C. Premier David Eby praised the library’s role in today’s world. In a video message, he noted that libraries are vital in an era of misinformation. They promote literacy and critical thinking, helping people distinguish fact from fiction. Eby described the library’s century-long service as “a tremendous achievement.”
Chief librarian Ursula Brigl emphasized that public libraries are more than places to borrow books. “Libraries are spaces where people can work, study, relax, and feel safe,” she said. “They allow individuals to explore, be curious, and discover something new. At their core, public libraries serve the people.”
From humble beginnings in 1925 to a modern hub of information and learning, Cranbrook Public Library continues to provide accessible literature and community support. Its centennial celebration reflects not only the library’s growth but also the ongoing belief in the importance of free access to knowledge.
As libraries across the country adapt to technology and social changes, Cranbrook’s milestone stands as a reminder of the enduring value of public libraries. For a century, the library has offered more than books. It has provided a place for learning, connection, and discovery, ensuring that all members of the community have the opportunity to read, learn, and grow.
