Indiana’s Most Haunted Library Is Also One of Its Best-Kept Community Treasures

Nestled in the heart of Evansville, Indiana, sits a place that is not only rich in Hoosier history, but it's also a tremendous community resource - and it's haunted too!

The World's Most Haunted Library is Found in Indiana

You have likely heard the ghost stories of the Grey Lady who takes up residence at the historic Willard Public Library. There are even ghost cams set up throughout the historic haunt to capture any paranormal activity.

Willard Public Library First Opened Its Doors in 1885

Hauntings aside however, Willard Public Library is a tremendous asset to the community. The library, which was first opened in 1885 nearly a year and a half after the passing of the library's visionary and namesake, Willard Carpenter.

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Inspired by the “Emma Willard School” of Troy, New York, Willard Carpenter had always wanted to found an educational institution with the name “Willard.” Carpenter’s son-in-law observed that he “seemed to be struck on the name.” And that’s how Willard Library got its name.

'Friends of Willard Library' Works to Raise Awareness

In 1972 the "Friends of Willard Library" were formed to help bring more awareness to the facility and all it offered the community.

Some Things Have Changed at Willard Since 1885

Willard Public Library has seen a great number of guests, and undergone a several additions over the years including a climate-controled basement room to preserve and store rare documents and photos in the mid-1980s, and the first expansion of the library in its history which occured in 2015.

So What Does a 140 Year Old Library Have to Offer?

March 28, 2025 will mark the 140th anniversary of Willard Public Library's opening day in 1885, and the library is still a valuable resource to book lovers and community members Willard offers a summer reading program open to all ages. They regularly host virutal author talks online with best-selling authors (no library card required), and preschool storytime and toddler playtime is designed to ensure young patrons discover their love of reading.

Willard Public Library Offeres Digital Resources Too

There are also a number of digital resources that are available with a Willard Public Library Card. You do have to have a WPL Card to check out books and other materials, and to utilize the libraries computers, but library cards are free for both Evansville and Indiana residents.

How to Get Yuor Very Own Willard Public Library Card

If you live, work or attend school in Evansville, you just need to verify your address with your photo ID to receive a library card. Indiana residents outside of Evansville will need their state issued ID and a copy of their home library card. Again, there is no charge for Indiana residents to receive a Willard Library Card. For those out of state who wish to have a card, a photo ID and a $35 annual fee is required.

To learn more about this amazing historic gem in the heart of Southern Indiana, and to shop their online store or contribute to their restoration campaign, visit WillardLib.org.