The Wright County Library was established in 1947 with the headquarters at the county seat in what was the former Pool millinery building.  At that time, Mountain Grove had its own public library, but decided to merge with the county system with the understanding that a branch library would open there.  In 1948, bookmobile service started to the area schools and county stores.  The first Wright county Librarian was Docia Holland, who served until 1956.  Nava Austin was then selected as the new county librarian until her retirement in 1996.  In May 1997, Carrie Cline was hired as the County Library Director.  In June 2001, Judy Epperly was hired as the new County Library Director and served until her retirement in December 2015.  Karen Moore was hired as the County Library Director in January 2016 and served until her retirement in December 2021. Teresa Miller was hired, and has been serving as the County Library Director since January 2022.

The Library Board is composed of five (5) members who serve four  year terms.  The Wright County Commission appoints new members as required, taking care to ensure the entire county is represented.  Members can be reappointed to additional terms by the Wright County Commission.  The function of the Board is to set policy, approve the annual budget, and hire the Director.  The Board holds regularly scheduled meetings on the first Monday evening of each month, unless it conflicts with other activities. The meetings begin at 7:00 PM at a branch library, and the agenda for the meetings are posted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting.

How Can You Be Involved?

There are many ways you can choose to involve yourself at your local Wright County Library.

“In Memory Of” Donations

In lieu of flowers, many people choose to donate money to the library in memory of a departed loved one.  Specific titles or subjects can be specified, but whatever material is selected will be shelved with a bookplate.

Summer Reading Program

Each summer the Wright County Library participates in the Missouri Summer Reading Program in providing encouragement to children of all ages to read during the summer and have extra fun doing it. Make donations towards the Summer Reading Program to be a partner in reaching the children of our community.

Friends of the Library
The Wright County Friends of the Library are an active group of volunteers dedicated to bettering the library system.  They meet once a month, and help with various projects and fund-raising.