The public library in Middlesex County traces its roots to 1915, when fifteen women formed a book club for the purpose of exchanging books and enjoying the pleasures of reading together. The books were signed on the fly leaf when borrowed and returned.

The formal establishment of the Urbanna Library took place in 1927. It was first housed in the Middlesex County Bank building in the town of Urbanna. Before moving to its present Grace Street location, the Urbanna Library also operated in the Virginia Street building presently owned by the Middlesex Women’s Club and later moved to the Old Tobacco Warehouse.

A library funded by the U.S. Works Progress Administration (WPA) formed in Deltaville during the 1930’s but was discontinued in the 1940’s. Gazelle Ingram managed this library, which operated out of a grocery store owned by Ed Gemmell. It was located at the corner of Crittenden Road and Route 33. In the 1950’s the Deltaville Library was reorganized by two women, who traveled throughout the community with books for circulation in their cars. It again discontinued until its reorganization by volunteers in the 1980’s, who obtained space in the Redman Building.

With the guidance of the Virginia State Library (now the Library of Virginia) the Urbanna Library and the Deltaville Library merged in 1987 as the Middlesex County Public Library, Inc. (MCPL). It was organized as and remains a 501(c)(3) corporation. MCPL is one of several nonprofit public libraries in Virginia. Just like any other library which is part of a governmental jurisdiction, MCPL receives State Aid based on a formula established by the legislature. We also receive support from Middlesex County and the Town of Urbanna.

Together the two branches house a collection of over 56,000 items, including rare books, an extensive book collection of Middlesex County and Virginia history and genealogy, a Chesapeake Bay collection, children’s and adult books, magazines and newspapers, books on CD, and DVDS. Computers are available for public use at each branch. 

In addition to the services expected of a modern public library, MCPL provides a variety of community activities and is recognized as a principal cultural resource in Middlesex County. These activities include art exhibits; programs featuring great books and poetry; informative discussions on important local topics; concerts; and storytellers. A Children’s Storytime  meets weekly at Urbanna, Deltaville, and offsite locations, and MCPL sponsors a Summer Reading Program for children.

In the early 1990’s MCPL conducted a Capital Fund Campaign, raising over $700,000 by public subscription. Funding sources included pledges and donations from individuals and corporations, plus grants from Middlesex County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States Government. With this money the Board built a new branch in Urbanna and extensively renovated a former drug store in Deltaville. Both facilities opened in 1993.

In 1994, MCPL hired its first certified librarian, Paula Greenwood, as Executive Director.

A Board of Directors that consists of at least 12 voting members governs MCPL. The Board meets the fourth Monday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. The Executive Board meets on the fourth Monday of February, April, June, August, and October. All Board and Executive Board meetings are open to the public.