In 1922, the Bay Minette Public Library was established by the Women’s Civic Improvement Association, a group that had been formed in 1913. Led by Mrs. T.W. Gilmer (Anne), these women took the initiative to place bookcases in one of the jury rooms in the courthouse. They stocked the shelves with approximately 400 books that had been collected.
This marked a turning point for the Bay Minette community. Books were a rare commodity at the turn of the century, often expensive, difficult to find and considered a luxury reserved for the wealthy. The establishment of the public library not only provided a valuable resource for education and entertainment, but also symbolized the dedication and foresight of the Women’s Civic Improvement Association in enriching the lives of their fellow citizens.
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