173 - Hazen Public Library
A leafy tree frames the entrance and green sign of the Hazen Public Library in Hazen, ND.
The Hazen Public library is a charming place, a labyrinth of towering bookshelves filled with countless volumes spanning every topic imaginable. From William the Conqueror to Winnie the Pooh, there is a book for everyone, just waiting to transport you to a different time and place. The stories inside the Hazen Public Library aren’t confined between the covers though, in fact, if these walls could talk, you’d hear the sound of train whistles and the rumble of engines.
The story began in 1913 when the Hazen train depot officially opened for business along the Northern Pacific Railway. While the depot quickly became a key part of Hazen’s development, serving as a hub for transportation and commerce, it suffered the same fate as many depots of that era. By the middle of the 20th century, the depot had closed its doors, but the story didn’t end there.
A few blocks away, in the old water treatment plant, a new chapter was starting not only for the depot, but the town of Hazen as well. On April 10, 1965 Minnie Miller, the first librarian at the Hazen Public Library, welcomed 400 eager readers and checked out 277 books on the library's opening day. By the end of the first month, over 1,000 books had been loaned. While the library was certainly a success, change was on the horizon. The library was relocated to City Hall before moving for the final time in 1985 to the old train depot, which had been moved to the east end of Main Street.
Today, after 60 years, the Hazen Public Library continues to thrive. With over 15,000 items available to checkout, there is always something new to read, listen to, or find. The library offers children’s programming throughout the year as well as an extensive collection of Mercer County history. As part of the Central Dakota Library Network, patrons of the Hazen Public Library have access to over 400,000 items spanning every topic imaginable. Like the old depot, the library has become a vital community hub, offering not only access to books and information, but also resources, social connections, and opportunities for learning and engagement. Whatever you are looking for, the Hazen Public Library is a welcoming friend to help you on your way.