The building, located at 923 1st Corso, has been described as "a modest, yet fine example of the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture in Nebraska".

The people of Nebraska City raised $2,950 for the purchase of land and fixtures for the library, and a building was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by Omaha architect George L.

[5][6] Construction, from rock-faced brick trimmed in red-brown sandstone,[7] began in 1896; the building was dedicated in 1897.

[8] In 1932, as a gift from Joy Morton, a three-story stack room was added to the south side of the library.

[2] The building was determined to be of statewide significance due to the time-period of its construction, its notable architecture, and the educational and social/humanitarian missions which it fulfilled.