Austin Memorial Library
“At the heart of Cleveland’s story for more than 70 years.”
For generations, the Austin Memorial Library has stood as a cornerstone of learning, community, and culture in Cleveland, Texas. What began as a small, volunteer-led effort has grown into a vibrant public library that continues to honor the legacy of Bessie Sims Austin and Charles O. Austin, whose vision and generosity made it all possible.
Our History
The Austin Memorial Library proudly honors Bessie Sims Austin and Charles O. Austin, two individuals whose generosity and community spirit made the library possible.
Mr. Austin was born in Palmyra, Missouri, and Mrs. Austin (née Bessie May Sims) was born in San Antonio, Texas.
The Beginning
The dream of a public library in Cleveland began with the Women’s Club of Cleveland, who adopted the project and worked tirelessly to make it a reality.
In May 1952, the first public library opened in the corner of an auto parts store. The Women’s Club and the Cleveland Boy Scouts collected donated books, which members then cleaned, painted, and repaired. One dedicated club member even served as the first librarian.
A Gift and a Legacy
Mrs. Bessie Austin offered land for the first dedicated library building, on the condition that it be named in memory of her late husband, Charles O. Austin. Mr. Austin had served as Texas State Banking Commissioner, President of the Farmers’ State Bank in Cleveland, and, at the time of his passing, as a Judge of Liberty County, Texas.
A library board of twelve members was soon formed, representing civic organizations, schools, and the Chamber of Commerce—turning what began as a Women’s Club project into a true community effort.
Growing with the Community
Mrs. Austin purchased and moved an 18x20-foot frame building to the library site, which served as the first permanent library until November 1957.
In 1957, Mrs. Austin purchased a larger brick building, which the community helped move and restore. This building served as the library until April 1973 and was later home to the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce offices.
A Modern Library for Cleveland
After Mrs. Austin’s passing in 1966, the citizens of Cleveland became the beneficiaries of her generous estate. Her legacy made possible the construction of a new, state-of-the-art library, which opened in April 1973.
The new building was designed to hold 25,000 volumes, display a museum of the Austins’ furniture, letters, and antiques, and provide spaces for community enrichment—including a dance studio, auditorium, music and art studios, and meeting rooms. At its opening, the library housed 11,000 titles and employed five staff members.
Renovation and Renewal
From 2006 to 2007, the Austin Memorial Library underwent its first major renovation. During this time, the city developed a new Civic Center and relocated the historical museum to the former City Hall building, where the Austins’ antiques are now preserved.
After serving as a civic center, museum, and library for 35 years, the Austin Memorial Library returned to its original purpose: a full-service public library dedicated to learning, discovery, and community connection.
Today
Today, the Austin Memorial Library continues to serve as a welcoming place for readers, learners, and families throughout Cleveland and Liberty County. The library offers a wide range of books, digital resources, and technology services, along with programs for all ages—including storytimes, summer reading, teen activities, and adult education opportunities.
Our dedicated staff works to ensure the library remains a vibrant hub for knowledge, creativity, and community engagement—just as Bessie and Charles Austin envisioned more than seventy years ago.
The Austin Memorial Library stands not only as a tribute to their legacy, but also as a living part of Cleveland’s future—a place where everyone is welcome to explore, learn, and grow.
