[3] The first library building was completed in September 1905 at the corner of Norfolk and Paisley streets downtown, partly through a Carnegie Foundation grant of $24,000.

[5] According to a University publication, "The library permitted free access, used the Dewey Decimal system classification, and provided a card catalogue.

The motto, "Floreat Scientia" ("Let Knowledge Grow") was carved above the stone entrance.

[6] It was demolished in 1964 in spite of public opposition, and replaced with the current structure on Norfolk St.[7][8] A new public library may be built near the Baker St. parking lot, which is to be redeveloped as the Baker District.

Preliminary discussions about a new main branch had taken place by summer 2017 with some decision expected to be made in 2018.