Library History

The Andrew Carnegie Library had it's formal opening in Winnsboro, Texas in 1909. The library, however, did not open the doors for official service until 1910.

The Standard Club of Winnsboro opened and operated the library for the first eight months. After the first eight months, the City of Winnsboro took over the operation of the library with Ms. T.U. Bozeman as the first librarian. To date, the city continues to support the library and provide monies for books and operating expenses.

In 1967, the library moved to a new building on West Broadway. It was with mixed feelings, as many loved the historical landing being left behind. The town, however, took great pride in knowing the new library had been built entirely with city funds. No bond election had to be held and no state, county or federal funds were used in its completion. This was just the beginning of what was to be a rapid growth of the library.

Interest in a new and larger library was peaked with a $60,000 bequeath in 1985 from the estate of Fern Gilbreath. In December of 1985, Judge T.C. Chadick, former resident and retired associate judge of the Supreme Court, donated a lot for the new library at 916 N. Main.

The City of Winnsboro began a massive fundraiser. Soon, everyone was astounded when the funds reached $687,000.00. In May of 1986, the city received a $100,000.00 grant through the LSCA Title II grant program. Out of thirty applicants, Winnsboro was number three. In September 1986, construction began on the beautiful 6,000 square foot building that was to be known as the Gilbreath Memorial Library. The entire town watched as a dream was rapidly becoming a reality.  The library then received a grant from the North East Texas Library System for a new computer system. With the donation of a copy machine by Lee Ray, the office began to look official.

Gilbreath Memorial Library serves a tri-county area of Wood, Hopkins, and Franklin counties. 

Gilbreath Memorial Library continues to plan and focus on the future needs as well as meet the present ever changing needs of the community through grants, community support from individuals and organizations. We strive to  follow the dreams of the Standard Club that saw the need of enriching the lives of others in the community, many years ago.