The Merrickville Public Library has a history going back over 150 years!
It began as the "Mirickville Mechanics Institute and Library Association" in 1856.  The Village was incorporated in 1860 as "Merrickville".

The fledgling Library occupied several locations over the years including St. Lawrence St., the Jakes Block and the Post Office.

The present library building was built and owned by William Pearson, co-owner of the Pearson-Magee Foundry. In 1910, it became the property of his daughter, Mary Pearson.

In 1938, Miss Pearson, a woman of culture who also supported the Library financially during some lean years, donated the building to the Village of Merrickville for use as a Library and Municipal Office.  By 1972, the Library had moved to the upstairs part. In 1984, the Village Municipal Offices moved to their present location and the Library then occupied the entire building.

The brick one and a half story building is one of Merrickville's most picturesque designated heritage buildings. Built on a cross gable plan, it is decorated with yellow brick quoins, window and door arches. The building is also graced with heavy gingerbread boarding under the steep gables and on the veranda.

In 2007, Merrickville Public Library celebrated 150 years of library service in the community. This same year, the Merrickville Lions Club purchased the building which had previously housed the Canadian Recreational Canoe Association to donate to the municipality as a new home for the library.

The library opened in its new location on June 7, 2008. And our story continues...

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