Architect Luther M. Turton designed the building in the Richardson Romanesque style, which can be seen in its use of rusticated stone, round arch windows, and massive scale.

The design represented a shift in Napa architecture, which was mainly Victorian prior to the library's construction.

Goodman stipulated that the building would remain in the city's possession as long as it served as a library but would otherwise revert to his heirs.

[4] A $1.75M contract to repair damage to the building including bracing and a new roof was awarded in January 2017.

[5][6] The Napa County Historical Society reopened their operations by summer 2018 and maintain library services and an exhibit space to this day.