The library and civic center was constructed under President Roosevelt's federal relief administration. Officials broke ground for the building on January 13, 1935, at the site of the old Davis Wagon Yard.

The building plans, designed by Oklahoma City architect E. Paul Prins, called for a rustic Craftsman-style, two-story building with basement.

On February 26, 1936, a WPA crew of 30 men cut and laid the floor and walls. The library opened August 6, 1936, at a total cost of $39,428.