History of the Sparta Free Library and the building

The Sparta Free Library building is located at Court and Main Streets.  The Library is a Carnegie library built in 1902 and enlarged in 1982.  It was designed by Schick and Roth in Classical Revival architectural style.  National recognition of Sparta's Carnegie Library was achieved in 1981, when it was named to the National Registry of Historic Places. 
************************************************************************************************

The existence of Sparta's library capsules American history, its roots reaching back to Civil War days when a gentleman could buy a $5 share of stock in the "Young Men's Library Association" (and make a security deposit when borrowing a book.)

Then, on May 7, 1874, by Village Council resolution, Sparta became one of the first Wisconsin community to take advantage of a newly passed statute enabling villages and cities to establish free public libraries.

For a quarter of a century Sparta's library operated out of back rooms of dental offices and second floors of store buildings.

In 1902, thanks to a $12,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie and a promise from the Village Council to meet operating cost, the south section of the present building was erected.  The Library had a home of its own.

It had been progressive from the start.  Children's books were introduced to the collection in 1899, the librarian was sent to Madison for "continuing education" in 1902 and there has been a children's story hour since 1912.  But after 80 years of service the neoclassical structure felt the pinch of age and progress.

After undergoing a half-million dollar restoration and expansion project, funded by the City, and a $60,000 furnishings effort, funded through individual, corporate and township contributions, the Sparta Free Library increased and improved services to the community.  A street level entrance and elevator in the new north wing make the facilities handicap accessible.  The Children's Library now occupies most of the lower level.