Some places catch you off guard in the best way. You think you are stopping at a library, but instead you find yourself looking at stone towers and castle-like details. That is the first impression of Brumback Library in Van Wert, Ohio. From the outside alone, this historic Ohio library feels more like something from a fairy tale than a typical public library.
That first reaction makes sense once you know the story behind it.
The Vision That Shaped Brumback Library
John Sanford Brumback was born in 1829 in Licking County, Ohio. His father died when he was young, and he grew up working the family farm while attending school when possible. Responsibility came early, and so did determination. By seventeen, he left home with fifty dollars and opened a general store.
In 1862, Brumback moved his family to Van Wert County, which was still lightly settled. He opened a dry goods store, invested in local industries, and later became president of the Van Wert National Bank and Central Mutual Insurance Company. Even as his success grew, he remained committed to giving back, especially in education and public access to books.
How a Fairy Tale Library Became a Reality
In 1890, twelve women formed the Van Wert Ladies Library Association and created a small subscription library with about 1,400 books. When the city support later made the library free to the public, Brumback saw an opportunity to think bigger. He believed a library should serve the entire county, not just a single town.
Brumback began planning a county library, but passed away before construction began. His family carried out his vision, and his son, Orville S. Brumback, helped pass legislation that created the first tax-supported county library in the United States. Construction started in 1899, and Brumback Library officially opened on January 1, 1901.
A Historic Ohio Library That Still Stands Out
Designed by architect David L. Stine and built by J. S. Zook, Brumback Library blends Gothic and Romanesque styles. Stone walls, turreted towers, and a tiled roof give the building a fairy-tale appearance. It was placed within a park setting, just as John Sanford Brumback requested.
Inside, the high ceilings, marble floors, and warm wood details reflect the care put into the original design. Over time, the library expanded to meet community needs. The library expanded its services by adding a children’s department in 1917. A major renovation and a 10,500-square-foot addition were completed in 1991, funded by Brumback’s grandchildren. The collection grew from just over 1,400 books to more than 235,000 items.
Why Brumback Library Still Matters Today
The National Register of Historic Places added Brumback Library in 1979, followed by recognition from the Ohio Historical Society in 2001. Today, this fairy tale library continues to serve Van Wert County with books, research resources, and modern technology.
Brumback Library stands as proof that a public library can be both practical and beautiful. Its fairy tale look draws people in, but its history, purpose, and continued service are what make it truly special.
