Our library was established before 1900 in Dayton, Iowa, when a few women each purchased some books to exchange. As the collection grew, the books were housed in the back of the local bank with access provided only to local school children. Later, a women's club was organized and began operating the library which was moved to the high school. Due to overcrowding, the library relocated to an old bank building where it remained until the current building was erected in 1966. This new building included the post office and city council chambers. In 1993 the council chambers were relocated, allowing the library to expand into the additional space for a total of 1406 square feet.
The Dayton Public Library is accredited by the State of Iowa. It is the library's mission to provide citizens with equal access to information and ideas in order to lead an enriched life through lifelong learning.
