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"The Gibson County Public Library was established in 1932 through the efforts of the late Mrs. Will Hunt, who went throughout the county collecting books and seeking funds.
The first base of the library was in the [old] Trenton City Hall.
Many women in Trenton donated time repairing, processing, and checking out books.
Mrs. G. W. Dodds, known affectionately as 'Miss Bobbie,' became interested in the library and acted as the librarian.
In 1937, the Gibson County Central Library, on the Dyer highway, was built through funds of the N.Y.A to serve the schools of the county. This was one of the first Central Libraries in the State of Tennessee. 'Miss Bobbie' was elected librarian of the County Central Library and was given permission to move the Public Library into the central building.
Upon 'Miss Bobbie's' retirement from the Central Library in 1951, there was not space for the Central and Public Libraries in the same building. For this reason, the Public Library was moved to [its location] on High Street in December, 1951."
From Gibson County, Past and Present, by Fredrick M. Culp
Opening day of the Central Library, April 3, 1939
Ms. G. W. "Bobbie" Dodds, the first librarian of Gibson County
Ms. G.W. "Bobbie" Dodds pictured at City Hall with Mr. A. R. Dixon, the County Superintendent of Education
Central Library location near the county jail, opened in 1939; first intended for distribution of books throughout schools in the county.
Display at the storefront location across from Anderson's Furniture, opened in 1951, located at 115 High St
Current building, built in 1968
House previously on current library grounds
"The Gibson County Memorial Library had its humble beginnings as a City of Trenton Library, begun by the late Mrs. G.W. Dodds during the depression.
It became the county library when regional library services began in 1945. Under former County Judge R.V. Atkins, with a county appropriation of $10,000, started the local campaign. The City of Trenton and State of Tennessee followed with like amounts, and local clubs, individuals, and industries swelled this to $57,750, which was matched by federal library building funds. The Gibson County Memorial Library building and equipment represent an investment of $115,500 in the future of Gibson County, Tennessee."
From the Program for the Dedication of Gibson County Memorial Library, October 19, 1968
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"In 1945, the Gibson County Public Library became a member of the Reelfoot Regional Library Service, centered at Martin, Weakley County. At that time, only four counties belonged to the service. This enabled Gibson County to have library service throughout the county."
From Gibson County, Past and Present, by Fredrick M. Culp
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