1939

Bookmobile service began making stops in North Ridgeville.

1951

Charles A. Hoskins, past president of the PTA, requested a branch for the township.

1955

Residents of North Ridgeville, Sheffield Lake and Avon requested branches.

1956

The North Ridgeville Junior Women's Club began fundraising to support a future branch.

1958

The first branch opened Sept. 1 in a storefront in the Tran Building at 7085 Avon-Belden Road in a 20-by-40-foot space.

1968

Community members raised concerns about inadequate facilities and the need for expansion.

1973

Reduced funding led to decreased branch hours.

1974

Renovations improved service, though the search for a larger space continued.

1977

The branch moved into the 1,800 square foot Old Town Hall on Center Ridge Road in September after some renovations were made. The city-owned building was provided rent-free for twelve years.

1984

Hours increased with city funding and a literacy program was introduced.

1988

LPLS Trustees explored a variety of larger sites to relocate the branch and a 5,000 square foot former bank building at 6401 Jaycox Road was selected.

1989

The branch moved into the former bank building on Jaycox Road. More than 400 people attended the open house.

1990

The branch received the Business of the Year Award. The library system purchased the Jaycox Road property and circulation increased more than 40%.

1991

Computers were introduced and the system joined CLEVNET, expanding access to materials.

1992

A citizens panel studied future needs.

1993

A levy to fund expansion was rejected.

1994

More than 200 people attended a National Library Week event featuring Joe Charboneau.

1997

Internet access became available through OPLIN. Space limitations continued to affect services.

1998

A Citizen Task Force was formed to guide future development as the branch again outgrew its space. The branch celebrated its 40th anniversary.

1999

Voters approved a November levy to build a new facility. The city donated the land at 35700 Bainbridge Road and the $4.7 million building project was funded through the Library and Government Support Fund (LLGSF), borrowed funds using LLGSF tax anticipation notes and the ability to set aside funds from the levy passage.

2002

Groundbreaking for the new 27,500 square foot building at 35700 Bainbridge Road took place.

2003

The grand opening took place May 4 with expanded services and significantly increased circulation.

2004

A second levy attempt passed after an initial defeat.

2008

The branch celebrated five years in the new building and 50 years of service.

2009

Public computers were upgraded and wireless printing was introduced. An operating levy was passed.

2010

Self-checkout machines were added.

2011

A custom stained glass window by Sheree Ferrato was installed.

2012

A writers group was established.

2013

The branch marked 10 years in the building and added a digital sign. Technology classes were offered.

2014

A levy renewal passed and services continued to expand.

2015

Energy efficiency improvements were completed and a new meeting room was created.

2016

The meeting room and technology were upgraded. Staff hosted school visits and exhibits.

2017

Meeting room enhancements continued and passport services were introduced.

2018

The branch celebrated 15 years in the building and 60 years of service. A stained glass installation was completed and self-service fax and scanning were added.

2019

A StoryWalk was installed in partnership with local organizations. An operating levy passed.

2020

COVID-19 led to temporary closure, expanded digital services and curbside pickup. The branch also hosted produce pickup events.

2021

A mobile demonstration kitchen was introduced and produce programs supported local farmers. Passport services resumed at high levels.

2022

The branch processed more than 800 passport applications and expanded collections to include nontraditional items.

Naloxone boxes and new play stations were installed.

2023

Renovations continued with plans for expanded spaces and services.

2024

Renovations were completed and more than 600 people attended the grand opening. A quilting machine was added to the Create Space.

2026

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