The Marfa Public Library will provide members of and visitors to the community a relevant and diverse collection in a variety of formats. The Marfa Public Library will promote lifelong learning in the community through outreach projects and collaborations with other civic organizations in an atmosphere that promotes literacy, fosters exploration and the free exchange of ideas, and provides opportunities to engage with others. The Marfa Public Library began in 1947 when the Marfa Lions Club and the Marfa Study Club agreed to establish a library for the citizens of the area. E.K. Beanland, a local businessman, headed the Lions Club. His wife, Mary Livingston Beanland, was president of the Study Club. Housed in the historic U.S.O. building, the books were donated by local residents. For the first eight months, volunteers were in charge of the fledgling operation.
