There’s something magical about libraries. Stacks and stacks of books of every size, shape, genre, and topic, all containing unlimited possibility and potential in their pages. The best part is, libraries are free and accessible for all, a key to a world of knowledge that anyone can reach out and grab. Libraries truly are one of our society’s greatest treasures, and even in the age of ebooks and virtual platforms, there’s something about the experience of going to the library that simply can’t be replaced by screens. In Oregon, there’s one particular library that truly stands out, when it comes to quaint town libraries. The most beautiful library in Oregon, the Ashland Public Library has been a cornerstone of its community for over 100 years, and it’s absolutely one for the (pardon the pun) books.
One of Oregon’s smaller towns, Ashland has a population of just over 21,000.
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The town is known for its thriving arts scene and free-spirited community, and it’s truly a delightful little place.
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Ashland is also home to the most beautiful library in Oregon.
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Originally built as a Carnegie Library in 1912, the Ashland Public Library was serving the public and lending books as early as 1877.
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The library’s centennial in 2012 was a big deal in town, with festivities happening throughout the year; a book was even published detailing the library’s storied past.
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It’s a place that truly speaks to the town’s history and future.
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The Mickelson-Chapman Fountain, located on the library’s front lawn, is an ode to Oregon’s pioneer roots, featuring one of the state’s most beloved pioneers, Vicky Mickelson.
JC Castaneda Sales/Google Local Ashland’s acclaimed Lithia water also flows from this iconic fountain!
A recent 14,000-square-foot expansion project built on the library’s strong bones, and added a room full of large windows, providing unparalleled mountain views.
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The expansion of the century-old library also included the use of locally sourced and sustainable materials, providing a cozy, lived-in quality to the halls and corridors.
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A place for everyone, the Ashland Library is downright magical for children; cozy, whimsical, and full of hidden treasures.
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There’s something about the tangible, physical experience of an old library. Just ask any bibliophile, and they’ll tell you a library has a smell and feel to it; it’s a place with heart and soul – and stories.
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The library is a place where dreams come true, of endless possibilities and potential.
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Are we waxing poetic? You bet. But the beautiful Ashland Library in Oregon inspires nothing less. This extraordinary Oregon library really is one of the state’s most incredible treasures.
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The Ashland Library in Oregon truly is a vision, and we’re so lucky to be home to such a wondrous place. Learn more about this library, including hours and upcoming events, at the Jackson County Library Services website.
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Ashland’s acclaimed Lithia water also flows from this iconic fountain!
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And if you’re on the hunt for another historic gem in The Beaver State, definitely pay a visit to the Aubrey R. Watzek House.
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Address: 410 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland, OR 97520, USA
