The library's Summer Reading Program celebrates the opportunities for young people to discover their own stories in their land.

The Milford Public Library, surrounded by lush landscaping, retains its historic Carnegie appearance through the care of the Milford community.

The library is a stop on Kosciusko County's America 250 Passport Tour sponsored by the Kosciusko County Historical Society and the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors' Bureau.

Milford Public Library soon after it opened in 1919 as the culmination of persistent efforts in the community to build a permanent home for this important cultural and educational institution.

May 22, 2026

Milford Public Library Marks America’s 250th Anniversary with History Tour and Summer Programming

MILFORD, Indiana — As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of American independence, the Milford Public Library is helping local residents connect national history with the story of their own community.

The library’s summer reading programs for young people will touch on a number of historic themes under the heading of “Unearth Your Story.” The library has planned six weeks of educational activities and celebrations as well as reading challenges and prizes for reading increments of 250 minutes. Brochures are available at the library with more details on events and prizes. Sign-ups for children and youth ages 0-18 begin May 27; the program is free and open to all young people, regardless of residency status.

The library is also participating in Kosciusko County’s America 250 Passport Program, a countywide initiative encouraging residents and visitors to explore historic sites throughout the county. Participating locations feature artifacts connected to local and national history, marked with red, white, and blue ribbons as part of the celebration.

To participate in the Passport Tour, visitors can check in at multiple sites to earn commemorative prizes and entries into a grand prize drawing. More information is available at https://visitkosciuskocounty.org/250-passport/

Because Milford Public Library was founded on American values of freedom and opportunity, the celebration of America’s 250th carries special meaning. The library traces its roots back to 1907, when members of the Columbian Reading Circle organized efforts to establish a permanent public library for the community. After years of fundraising and advocacy, Milford secured a Carnegie library grant in 1915, and the current library building opened early in 1919.

More than a century later, the historic building remains a centerpiece of downtown Milford.

Library Director Karl Stutzman said the America 250 celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on the generations of community members who invested in literacy, education, and public life. “Milford’s library is a source of local pride and fond memories. More importantly, the community’s long-term investment means people of all ages are still making memories here through fun events and a wide variety of reading choices,” Stutzman notes. “Our staff and board are excited to continue to use the library as a way to build up Milford, Indiana, USA.”

Stutzman credited Associate Director Maureen Haab for the local history displays. “I’m blown away by how attractive and informative Maureen’s exhibits are. She brings together a wealth of local history information with deep relationships and care for individuals and families here in Milford.” He continued, “The great thing about the Milford library is that I could go on and on about each gifted staff person and volunteer who adds so much to this community.”

Earlier this year, the library received a $10,000 follow-up gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York recognizing Carnegie libraries that remain in operation during America’s 250th anniversary year.

Community support continues to shape the library’s future. Local businesses, donors, volunteers, and the Friends of the Milford Public Library contribute funding and support for programming and services throughout the year. The library has received a number of large gifts in the past year from a variety of individuals and organizations as well as a steady stream of smaller donations.

Later this year, the library’s Board of Trustees will begin work on a new Long Range Plan for 2027–2029 focused on facility improvements, programming, and future community needs.

More information about the library and its summer events is available at www.milford.lib.in.us. The library can be reached by phone at (574) 658-4312 and is located at 101 North Main Street, Milford, IN 46542.