However, farming proved unprofitable, and in 1857 the Belding brothers began a trade selling silk thread to nearby settlers.

Although this first venture was rocky, Belding Brothers eventually had multiple manufacturing facilities throughout the country.

This was followed by three others, and by the beginning of the twentieth century, silk manufacturing was the major part of Belding's economy.

The Grand Rapids architectural firm of Frank P. Allen & Son was selected to design the library.

[2] However, the next few decades marked a downturn for Belding, as the silk industry gave way to synthetic fabrics.

It is located on a sloping lot on the bank of the Flat River, so that the basement level can be accessed from the rear.

The main elevation has a prominent central entrance portico, consisting of a pediment supported by two columns.