Vaughn Public Library

Opening on November 16, 1888 on the corner of Vaughn Avenue and Main Street, the Vaughn Public Library is the oldest operating library in its original building in Wisconsin. In 2018 we celebrated 130 years of great library service in Ashland! Emeline Patrick Vaughn provided funds to build the library in memory of her late husband, Samuel Stuart Vaughn, an early businessman in the Chequamegon Bay area. 

Vaughn Public Library

Services

Vaughn Public Library is a municipal resource dedicated to providing open access to information, materials and services in a sustainable environment that supports, connects and empowers all community members through applied technology, professional librarianship and compassion.  Whether you are checking out a new book, downloading an electronic book, using a computer, meeting with colleagues or taking your kids to a fun & educational program, using the public library is a great way to celebrate one of Ashland's community assets.  


Building Renewal Project

The Vaughn Library project is underway! We're currently in the demolition phase. You might see a big lift or chute coming from the 2nd or 3rd floor leading to a dumpster. There is a lot of building that will be reused, but some things have to go. Vaughn Ave will be closed from north of the alley to Main St. during construction which will last about a year. For more details about the contractor, renovation updates, donation opportunities, and other project information, visit https://vaughnlibrary.org/.

We will regularly be sharing renovation photos on our website week-by-week. 

  1. 1 1st Floor North East View of work area including tools, materials, and ladders.
  2. 2 1st Floor Restrooms in progress
  3. 3 1st Floor North East View of work area including tools & materials
  4. 4 2nd Floor Southern Hallway in progress
  5. 5 2nd Floor teen reading room in progress.
  6. 6 2nd Floor Children's Reading Area in progress.
  7. 7 The library's black lab named Freda posing for a photo while exploring the 3rd floor hallway.
  8. 8 3rd floor northern hallway in progress.
  9. 9 3rd floor millwork planks stacked in a pile.
  10. 10 3rd floor north east window view looking at Lake Superior.
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