By 1907, a mere five years after Buchanan’s original donation, the cornerstone of the present library was being laid by the Grand Lodge of the Masons, drawing the locals and out-of-town dignitaries, including Gov. Mead. Today the building on the outside remains pretty much the same, while a restoration project is underway to restore the interior of the library to its stately appearance of the early part of the century.

So if you're ever passing through this part of the Northwest, don’t hesitate to come off the Interstate to historic downtown Ritzville and visit Ritzville’s own Carnegie library. If you can’t make the trip, be sure to browse the historic photo collection and check out the links to other libraries and archives. Future collections and possibly some regional art work depicting Native Americans and life on the farm are just a few things we’re working on, so don’t forget to check in on us every now and then.