The Community Library in Ketchum – Atlas Obscura

The Community Library

This independent library is rooted in community service and lifelong learning. Ketchum, Idaho

Added By Holyn Thigpen

The library has collections of over 100,000 lending books, downloadables, DVDs, CDs, games, and musical instruments.   Courtesy of The Community Library

About The Community Library

In 1955, 17 open-minded women from central Idaho founded The Community Library Association, which they operated with funds from a one-room resale shop called the Gold Mine Thrift Store. Their mission—which persists to this day—was to create a place “of the people,” where members of their community could be exposed to diverse ideas in ever-changing forms. 

After two years of fundraising at the Gold Mine, the founders were able to open a physical library location in downtown Ketchum. However, when the community showed up in even larger numbers than expected, the library outgrew this site and moved to a much bigger space nearby. (The original location has since been converted into a retail outlet of Gold Mine, which has itself become something of a local legend.) 

After its last renovation in 2019, The Community Library now encompasses nearly 28,000 square feet, including newer additions like the Children’s Library and the Regional History Department. Today, over 5,000 people (and counting) hold library cards at The Community Library, and people from all over the globe tune into its programming. Local residency is not required to check out books, so visitors are always welcome to stop by and take advantage of the many resources available. 

The resource is especially appealing in the winter months, when visitors can cozy up with a new favorite book by the library’s fireplace.

The library’s diverse programming has something for everyone, from writing workshops to crafting workshops and musical performances. Between English language classes and documentary screenings, the Community Library offers many educational opportunities, helping to foster lifelong learning and curiosity. 

The Community Library is also associated with the historic Hemingway House, which contains a collection of artifacts from Ernest Hemingway’s time visiting and living in Idaho. The Library holds the distinction of being the custodian of Hemingway’s final home along the Big Wood River, and each July, the Hemingway Distinguished Lecture is held to honor the month of the author’s birth and death.

The Wood River Museum of History & Culture, which hosts interactive exhibits, is also a part of The Community Library.

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