[2] The foundation stone for new building was laid by a local philanthropist, Mrs Emma Dawson, of Weston Hall on 19 June 1868.

[2] It was designed by Charles Fowler of Leeds in the Italianate style, built in ashlar stone and was officially opened on 31 October 1871.

[3] The design involved a symmetrical main frontage with five bays facing onto Cross Green; the central bay, which slightly projected forward, featured, on the ground floor, a portico with two pairs of Tuscan order columns supporting an entablature and, on the first floor, a stone balcony and a French door flanked by Corinthian order pilasters.

[2] The building became the main forum for public events in the town with lectures, theatrical performances and concerts all being held there.

[2] Following significant population growth, largely associated with the status of Otley as a market town, the area became an urban district in 1894.