The library was founded in 1872 by General Joseph Howland, and has the special features of the interior “Common Clay” relief sculpture mural, a community art project conceived by Mika Seeger; a colorful Main Street mural painted by Rick Price; and a South Cedar Street literary mural in memory of artist Audrey Chibbaro by Beacon High School art students. In 2002, the library received the Poughkeepsie Journal’s Diversity in the Workplace Award. Our diverse staff helps us serve our diverse community.
The Howland Public Library provides materials and services to help community residents obtain information meeting their personal, educational and professional needs. Special emphasis is placed on supplying adults with current reading materials; on providing free access to computers and the internet, on reference services to students (at all academic levels) and other information seekers; and on making our facility available for individuals, organizations and agencies to do community work. The library serves as a learning and activities center for all residents of the Beacon City School District.
