Eckhart Public Library Honored with Mayoral Proclamation for 115th Anniversary
Pictured: Steve Graber, President of the Friends of Eckhart Public Library and Valerie Simmons, Executive Director of Eckhart Public Library with Mayor David Clark holding the mayoral proclamation in celebration of the library’s 115th anniversary
AUBURN, Ind. — The City of Auburn has issued a mayoral proclamation recognizing the 115th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of Eckhart Public Library. Signed by Mayor Clark, the proclamation honors the library’s enduring role as a cultural hub, gathering place, and lasting symbol of philanthropy in the community.
To mark this milestone, the public is invited to a 115th anniversary celebration on Saturday, May 17 at 2:00 p.m., co-hosted by Eckhart Public Library and the Eckhart Library Foundation. The outdoor event will honor both the anniversary and the historic library fountain. In the event of rain, the celebration will move indoors to the Assembly Room of the Main Library. AMI Investment Management has generously sponsored this and other anniversary festivities this year.
Founded in 1910 through the vision and generosity of industrialist Charles Eckhart, the library has long stood as a beacon of learning, connection, and local pride. Over the decades, the library has expanded to meet the changing needs of Auburn residents, adding spaces like the Willennar Genealogy Center and the dedicated Teen Library.
In 2017, the library faced one of its greatest challenges when a fire severely damaged the historic Main Library building. Through overwhelming community support and careful restoration, the library reopened stronger than ever—preserving its historic character while enhancing its spaces for future generations.
The laying of the cornerstone of Eckhart Public Library on May 13, 1910.
Eckhart Public Library during original construction.
The work crew which built the basin for the fountain.
