About The Reddick Public Library District’s History Archives
The Reddick Public Library District offers free access to its historical newspaper collection through a partnership with Advantage Archives. This digital archive is an invaluable resource for exploring the rich history and culture of Ottawa, Illinois, and the surrounding area. The digitization project, supported by local grants and community contributions, includes over 15,000 pages of local history, making it an essential tool for researchers, genealogists, and history enthusiasts.
Newspapers
- The Ottawa Republican (1870-1880)
- The Ottawa Free Trader (1880-1890)
- The Ottawa Fair Dealer (1890-1900)
- The Ottawa Journal (1900-1910)
- The Ottawa Daily Times (1910-1920)
- The Ottawa Republican Times (1920-1930)
- The Ottawa Evening Journal (1930-1940)
- The Ottawa Leader (1940-1950)
- The Ottawa Sun (1950-1960)
- The Ottawa Tribune (1960-1970)
- The Ottawa Observer (1970-1980)
- The Ottawa Courier (1980-1990)
- The Ottawa Gazette (1990-2000)
- The Ottawa Sentinel (2000-2010)
- The Ottawa Chronicle (2010-2020)
- The Ottawa Beacon (2020-2023)
- The Ottawa Independent (1890-1895)
- The Ottawa Advocate (1895-1900)
About The Reddick Public Library District
Opened to the public on September 19, 1888, the Reddick Public Library was a generous gift to the city of Ottawa by William Reddick. Reddick, an Irish immigrant who settled in the Ottawa area in 1835, became a prominent political figure, representing LaSalle County in the state senate. In 1860, he built one of the most impressive Italianate residences in the state, which he later willed to the City of Ottawa, along with a substantial endowment, for use as a public library and reading room. The library offered its services from the mansion until February 17, 1975, when a new facility was built to accommodate the library’s growing collections and patronage.
Through a November 2006 referendum, Reddick Library’s service area was expanded to include most of the Ottawa Township High School taxing district. The library now offers a broad selection of materials in a variety of formats and an ever-growing array of traditional and non-traditional programs and services for patrons of all ages. With the ongoing support of the public it serves, it seems that William Reddick’s wish to have a library that shall “ever be open to the public” has indeed found expression.
The History Of The Reddick Public Library District
The Reddick Public Library District has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1888, thanks to the generosity of William Reddick. The library was originally housed in Reddick’s Italianate mansion, a significant landmark in Ottawa, Illinois. Over the years, the library has grown and evolved, moving to a new facility in 1975 to better serve the community. The library’s historical newspaper collection, now digitized and accessible online, provides a unique glimpse into the past, preserving the rich heritage of Ottawa and the surrounding areas for future generations.
About The Ottawa Area
Ottawa, located in LaSalle County, Illinois, is a community with a rich history and a strong sense of identity. Established in the early 19th century, Ottawa has grown from a small settlement into a thriving city known for its historical landmarks, parks, and cultural events. The Reddick Public Library District plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the area, providing access to a wealth of information and resources that support lifelong learning and community engagement.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the Reddick Public Library’s historical newspaper collection includes titles dating back to 1870? These newspapers offer a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past, chronicling significant events, everyday life, and the growth and development of the Ottawa community.
