The Ladies Library Association was established in 1871 to provide reading material at a small cost to the community. At first, only married women could be members, and the annual fee was one dollar. The association's women also took part in charitable work, including aid for Northern Michigan fire victims in 1881. In 1885, the association built this Italianate structure for $1,500. Its first floor contained the library, dining room, and kitchen, while the second-floor hall, including a stage, continues to be used for plays and community meetings. In 1974, Dryden Township accepted the building and made it the public library.