Artesia’s Library is a large part of the community. Throughout the year, citizens of Artesia can enjoy classes, events, art competitions, and much more hosted by the library and its staff. It took years of hard work and dedication from Artesians to build the library to its current state.
Artesia’s (though it wasn’t Artesia at the time) first Library Association was organized in 1903. Women in town saw the need for literary materials and took it upon themselves to create the space to hold these resources. The first meetings of the Library Associated were held at Mrs. Ross’s home. Membership in the association was a $1 yearly fee. All members at the time were women, which included the twelve directors of the association: Mrs. Dyer, Ross, Gilbert, Rogers, Benson, Cleveland, Smith, Hale, Pons, Scholars, Talbot, and White. By 1905, the Library Association had opened a reading room for the public, adding materials as often as they could. This space was rented though funds paid by businesses in Artesia who paid a monthly subscription to the association. As the contents of the association grew (up to four hundred volumes by 1906), the library itself moved buildings multiple times, two of which are thought to be what are known as the old Artesia Ford Company building and Western Union offices.
The first true city building for the library was built in 1957. The grand opening for the library was held on December 3rd of that year. The head librarian was Mrs. Rosalyn Shamblin. During this time, the library had an observance week, in which families in Artesia were chosen to receive gift certificates to purchase paperback books for their families. Two such families in 1966 were the Pacelys and the Eubanks, both of which were well known pastoral families. Summer reading programs became a yearly affair, encouraging kids to read and participate in activities within the community.
The newest Library was built in 2013 and officially opened in November of that year. This library has three distinct sections for children, teens, and adults. There are study/media rooms, as well as a special readings room. The staff work tirelessly all yearlong to provide the community with activities ranging from reading hours, STEM projects, and art. They assist everyone from children to older adults with research, paperwork, and finding needed communication for personal or business needs. This gem of Artesia was built on and maintained by the hard work of passionate citizens. Should anyone need any assistance or a place to take the family, consider the library for your needs!
All information came from editions of the “Artesia Daily Press,” a local newspaper for the city of Artesia.
For more information about the library, their online catalog, and contact information please go to the following link: Artesia Public Library | Artesia, NM – Official Website