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According to www.urbanafreelibrary.org: "Founded in 1874, The Urbana Free Library is one of the oldest public libraries in the state. Like a number of early public libraries, it began as a private association. The Urbana Library Association depended on annual membership fees and citizen donations to operate a reading room, renting a second story room on Main Street. In 1874, the association donated its entire collection of 845 books to the City of Urbana, which established 'The Urbana Free Library,' naming it to emphasize the fact that it was available, without a membership fee, to all city residents. The current landmark library building opened its doors on July 18, 1918. Named one of "America's best public libraries" in national rating surveys published by The American Library Association, The Urbana Free Library has earned a reputation for the quality of its collections and for outstanding service to patrons of all ages. The library is the very heart of community life in Urbana and continues a longstanding tradition of excellence."