March 1973
In the spring of 1962, the Putnam County District Library opened its fifth branch in the Monterey Township house, located on East Canal Street, Ottoville. This notable event attracted over 300 visitors during an open house event on April 8, 1962.
To facilitate the successful launch of the Ottoville-Monterey Township branch, various community organizations generously contributed both financial resources and volunteer hours. Notably, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, the Ottoville Volunteer Firemen, and the Lions Club were instrumental in these efforts. Their contributions were pivotal not only in terms of initial setup and logistical support but also in fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community.
March 1973
Viola Friemoth pcitured
Rita Turnwald had the distinguished honor of being the first staff member to oversee the Ottoville-Monterey Township location, a role she fulfilled from 1962 until 1966. Subsequently, Viola Friemoth succeeded her in 1966, continuing the legacy of dedicated service to the library. Throughout the 1970s, the staff of the Ottoville-Monterey Township location demonstrated their commitment to community service by delivering books to local nursing homes, a commendable initiative that was later adopted and is currently managed by the staff at the Ottawa library.
349 Wayne Street
A significant milestone in the branch's history occurred in 1979 when the township house was relocated to Wayne Street. This move afforded the Ottoville-Monterey Township branch an opportunity to expand its physical space, thereby enhancing its capacity to serve the community more effectively. In a strategic move to further align the library with the community's educational and recreational activities, the Ottoville-Monterey Township branch transitioned to a new location at 150 Park Drive in 2019. Positioned in close proximity to the local school and community park, this relocation was representative of the library's ongoing commitment to being an accessible and integral part of the Ottoville community.
