Charles O. Austin Memorial Library (First Public Library)

Photograph of first public library in Cleveland built by Mrs. Bessie Austin as memorial to her late husband called the Charles O. Austin Memorial Library. It was about 1/2 block from the grammar school. Students would walk single file to check out books. Three sides of the library were shelves of books. The only other item was a small desk and chair where the librarian worked. As of November 3, 2023, building razed due to termite damage and general deterioration.
Date: 1950
Creator: Young, Moon
System: The Portal to Texas History