The Town Council built the library in 1906. They received funding of £6,500 from Andrew Carnegie. It was purpose built to a classical design. The original ornamental railings surrounding the building were removed as part of the Second World War effort. Outside the main building, there is a free-standing pillar, which is the remains of the gateway of an old house which was situated at the top of Chapel Hill. William Smith has described house and residents in 'Rambles About Morley'.