1935

Avon began receiving monthly bookmobile service after Lorain Public Library was designated a county extension center. A small station was established at Avon Baptist Church and demand was strong, especially among children.

1938

The library station operated from a grocery store.

1940

The bookmobile completed its first full year of service.

1942

Avon was documented as an established bookmobile stop.

1947

Bookmobile service included stops at Avon Center Township.

1955

Residents requested a branch and funding was approved.

1956

Community groups supported renovations of the Old Town Hall at the corner of Stoney Ridge and Detroit Road, where the Avon Branch opened Nov. 6 with a collection of 792 books. The library was open three days a week – Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for a total of 20 hours per week. It closed each day for an hour lunch or dinner break.

1959

Usage increased, especially among students, and more seating was needed.

1960

A book return slot was installed for patron convenience.

1962

Monday hours were added to be open 26 hours per week.

1966

Advocacy efforts began by LPLS and the Friends of the Avon Library for a new building.

1968

The branch relocated to a larger storefront at Avon Plaza with expanded space and improved amenities. This location is behind what is currently Two Bucks, but was Pappo’s Pizza at the time.

1973

Reduced funding led to decreased branch hours.

1974

The floor plan was reorganized for improved service.

1976

An operating levy passed allowing for expanded services, materials and programming.

1981

A levy renewal passed.

1983

The branch moved to a larger location on Ridgeland Drive rented from Vasu Communication. The 3,800 square foot space included meeting space and accessibility improvements.

1984

A microcomputer was installed and programming expanded.

1986

A levy renewal passed.

1990

Facility improvements were completed and new programming was introduced.

1991

Computers were introduced and the system joined CLEVNET. The search began for alocation to house a permanent facility. The Harvest Drive location was chosen as the most central location for a new library building. An operating levy passed.

1992

A citizens panel studied future needs and programming expanded.

1994

The new 10,400-square-foot building opened with expanded community space and a meeting room that could seat 60.

1996

Community partnerships added improvements such as a new flagpole. An operating levy passed.

1999

The branch celebrated five years at the new location.

2000

Children’s collections expanded.

2001

An operating levy passed.

2004

The branch marked 10 years in the building.

2006

An operating levy passed.

2008

Educational activity backpacks were introduced.

2009

Technology upgrades and an anniversary open house were held.

2011

An operating levy passed.

2012

Teen programming and volunteer opportunities expanded.

2013

Community programming and facility improvements increased significantly.

2014

Renovations and anniversary celebrations were completed.

2015

Children’s programming expanded and energy efficiency improvements were made.

2016

Programs for children with special needs and community engagement increased. An operating levy passed.

2017

Community partnerships expanded and passport services were introduced.

2018

Passport services and oral history initiatives expanded.

2019

Planning began for a major expansion and community outreach increased.

2020

COVID-19 led to temporary closure, expanded digital services and curbside pickup. A building levy passed and planning continued.

2021

Construction began on a major expansion and renovation project.

2022

Construction continued and programming resumed. Community engagement remained strong.

Naloxone boxes and new play stations were installed.

2023

The renovated and expanded branch reopened with new spaces, programming and strong community attendance.

2024

Solar eclipse glasses were distributed and passport services remained in high demand.

2026

Lorain Public Library System celebrated its 125th anniversary with events at each branch.