CATTARAUGUS — The Cattaraugus Free Library will celebrate its 100th anniversary with an open house on Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the library, 21 Main St.

The idea for a public library in Cattaraugus began with the Women’s Civic League, first mentioned in meeting minutes on Oct. 12, 1925, when discussions began about establishing a library for the community.

On Nov. 17, 1925, the Civic League voted to house the new public library in the bathroom of their building so the collection could begin serving residents. Shortly after, on Nov. 22, 1925, the first elected Board of Trustees met and submitted an application for state aid.

The library received its provisional charter on March 25, 1926, officially establishing the Cattaraugus Free Library. The library opened its doors to the public soon after on April 8, 1926, with a collection of 771 books. Today, the collection has grown to more than 7,000 books, continuing its mission of serving readers of all ages.

The anniversary open house will include a peek at the upstairs expansion project, historical displays, light refreshments, basket raffles and small activities throughout the day.

Community members are invited to stop by, learn about the library’s history and help celebrate 100 years of reading, learning and community connection.

For more information, contact the library at 716) 257-9500 or email director@cattarauguslibrary.org.