History

The Tyler Public Library was founded in 1899 as a subscription library by the Tyler Federation of Women’s Clubs and is located above the old Tyler Electric Company offices on the north side of Tyler’s downtown courthouse square. The library soon moved to the then City Hall and subsequently became a city department in 1903. The following year, it moved nearby into its own building donated by Andrew Carnegie on College Avenue, which was the home of the library until 1980 when the present three-story building opened on College across Elm Street to the south.

As a city department, the library is directed by a City Librarian who answers to city management and is advised by a seven-member advisory Library Board appointed by the City Council.

Mission

To meet our patrons’ needs for information, education, and recreation through access to library resources.

Vision

Tyler Public Library is dedicated to ensuring that all citizens have access to current materials and resources necessary for lifelong enrichment and education, universal literacy, and informed decision-making.

Strategic Planning

Tyler Public Library is currently seeking input from Tyler citizens and library users. Please complete the following survey to help us build a brighter future.

Current Goals and Progress 

Download the Library 2022 Strategic Plan.