Have you been missing the Local History Library at the Depot? We miss you too! The Local History Library has been closed indefinitely for the summer of 2022. While we miss your visits and questions about Aurora history, we’ve been making some BIG changes! The main room at the Local History Library is getting a massive makeover. We are painting the interior of the depot to restore it to its original color scheme of Indian Red and Brown to match the colors of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, on which our depot was a stop. We are also installing shelving handmade by local woodworkers Iron Timbers for our various paintings and photographs to be proudly displayed on our walls. There are plans to make the building more accessible for our handicapped patrons in the coming year. One of the most exciting updates to our building is the installation of model train tracks and trains along the walls. This will add to the ambience of our space and serve as a reminder of the original purpose of our beloved depot.

We have received many inquiries from our dedicated patrons about the Local History Library and its eventual reopening. Due to the changing nature of the situation, we cannot provide a concrete date at this time, but we are now setting our sights on January 2023 for our grand reopening. Once the depot is opened to the public, expect some changes in our services and approach to local history. We will always provide assistance with genealogy and family history, but our focus will be shifting towards a community-centered approach. The Local History Library will become a space where members of the community can gather and share ideas and experiences in our hometown. We want you to think of the Local History Library as a classroom, presentation space, and extension of the main library branch, providing you with the proper space to learn and grow in Aurora.

So, we hope to see you soon at the depot! If you have any questions about local history, genealogy, or the depot, please speak to a librarian or give us a call at 812-926-0646. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.