The History of the Barberton Public Library, 1903-1990

The purpose of this paper is to relate the history and growth of the Barberton Public Library (Ohio) as it has been influenced by its founders and its six directors. The biography of prominent persons who have in some way affected the development of libraries is also considered to be part of library history. The following persons and their careers are discussed: Ohio Columbus Barber, founder of the town of Barberton and library directors Mary Taplin (1903-1914); Tallulah Kirk (1914-1943; Jean Galehouse (1943-1948); Elisabeth Bliler (1948-1966); Helen Bertsch (1966-1976); and Barbara Kirbawy (1976- ).