The original block is a single story in height, with walls that are mainly brick, and a slate hip roof.

[2] Indian Orchard developed in the 19th century as a somewhat isolated enclave of industry and residence apart from the rest of the city.

Its first library was a private effort founded in 1859 by the Indian Orchard Mills Corporation, which was offered as a free service to area residents.

Henry Kirke Wight donated space in a commercial building at Oak and Main Streets, which was put to use in 1901.

Later in the decade, the city received a grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie for new and updated library facilities, which was used in part to fund construction of the present building.