McKinney Memorial Public Library

History

When the Library found itself in financial difficulties in the early 1950's, Mrs. H.A. Finch, president of the Federation of Women's Clubs, rekindled interest in the Library and its problems. She called a special meeting to inform the Mayor, City Council, and citizens of the Library's financial destitution. Fifty people attended the meeting which reviewed the struggle that the small group of McKinney women had made to keep the Library open and the hardships they had faced in sponsoring a non-profit organization for the use of the community with virtually no fixed financial support.

As a result of this meeting, the City agreed to support the Library with 5 cents on every $100 of property evaluation. A new Library Board was established and bylaws for the Library were written. The Library was "free" in the sense that it was tax-supported as provided for in the City Charter. The Library submits an annual budget to the City.

Library Board Members are appointed by the City Council. The Board provides advice and counsel to the Director of the Library, the City Manager, and the City Council in matters relating to the services rendered by the Library.