Trails Regional Library History

1957: The Board of the existing library in Warrensburg (formerly known as the Johnson County Public Library) approved a merger with the Johnson County Library. A contract was signed between the Johnson County Library Board and Lafayette County Library Board to form a Regional Library with the name “Trails Regional Library”. Esther Gilman was the first Director.

1958: The Corder Library Board and Waverly Library Board approved mergers with Trails Regional Library.

1959: The Lexington Library and Concordia Library merged with Trails Regional Library.

1965: The Odessa Library merged with Trails Regional Library.

1971: An additional Johnson County Branch was opened in Knob Noster.

1980s: Trails Regional Library became Consolidated Library District #4. Esther Gilman retired and Susan Bonett became the new Director.

1999: A new site was procured for the Knob Noster Branch.

2000: Trails Regional Library purchased the current Odessa Branch building.

2004: The new Holden Branch of Trails officially opened its doors to the public.

2005: The Trails Regional Library Foundation had its first meeting. Director, Susan Bonett retired and Trails welcomed new Director, Karen Hicklin, to the library.

2006: The Warrensburg Branch and Administrative Offices moved to 432 N. Holden Street in Warrensburg.

2008: Trails Regional Library moved the Concordia Branch to a new location on 813 S. Main Street.

2009: Trails Regional Library renovated the Waverly Branch building.