As the Geneva Public Library prepares to open its new facility in the coming months, the City’s newest pewter ornament honors the current building the library has called home for more than a century.  

The 2019 ornament, which depicts the library on the front and history of the building on the back, is now on sale for $12. The ornament can be purchased from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday at City Hall, 22 S. First St., or online at the "Shop The Geneva Store."

After a referendum passed in 1894, construction on the library began two years later. However, due to a lack of funding, the structure stood with half-finished walls for several years. In 1906, the women of the Geneva Improvement Association took over the structure “as a free gift” on the condition they see the library endeavor to completion. A $7,500 gift from Andrew Carnegie in 1907 also supported the library effort.

The original library building, located at the corner of Second and James Streets, opened in 1908, with additions following in 1938, 1986 and 1998. The Craftsman architectural style is enhanced by stone exterior chimneys and Tudor half-timbering with stucco. Stone for the original part of the building is from the Batavia quarry. More information about the Geneva Public Library District can be found on the library's website.

This is the 10th year Geneva has sold its traditional pewter ornament to the community. Previous editions still available to purchase are City Hall, Patten House, Moore House (The Little Traveler), Peck Farm and the Fabyan Windmill.

The City’s “Shop The Geneva Store” also sells refuse stickers and other Geneva-themed merchandise, including silicone bands, coffee mugs, tote bags and more at City Hall and online. Shipping charges will apply to online orders. For more information, call Geneva City Hall at 630-232-7494.