The total cost of the library including building, heater, furniture and the initial book collection was $3,363.73.

Though extensively remodeled and expanded during the 1950s and 60s, community leaders soon recognized that a more modern and spacious facility would be needed.On May 15, 1995, James Lester, chairman of the Board and CEO of Eggers Industries of Two Rivers, and his wife Barbee offered the Two Rivers City Council $1 million toward the construction of a new library.

The City Council readily accepted and on June 28, 1997 the Lester Public Library—named in honor of Jim's parents, George and Marcia Lester—opened for business.

Lester Public Library sits on the shores of Lake Michigan in the city of Two Rivers, Wisconsin.

Total service population is 15,686; the library circulated 225,622 items to 151,503 visitors in 2009.