Address: 398 W Beech Streets, Durant, OklahomaCounty: Bryan
Started: Completed: 1936
Agencies:WPANRHP:September 8, 1988

Current Usage:

Public Library

Description:

The Williams Library is a single story, L-shaped (82′ x 52′ vertically with a 25′ x 27′ horizontal extension) structure constructed of native limestone blocks and buff colored bricks. The quality of masonry is excellent. Brick is restricted to the rear, outside wall. The roof is flat with parapets, while singly placed metal casement windows rise to the height of interior ceilings. A decorative frieze just above the window openings and pilasters between the windows and beside the front entry give the library building a distinct art deco style.
As a WPA building, the Williams Library is distinctive because of its clear art deco style and the use of limestone as a building material. Moreover, it is the only WPA structure specifically and originally dedicated to library purposes in the nomination area. Style and building materials make it unique in the community of Durant, as does its architectural type and characteristics of workmanship. Most significant is that the building provided employment opportunities for destitute laborers at a time when starvation was the only alternative.

Sources:

  1. Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory Nomination
  2. National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form

Supported Documents:

  1. WPA Properties Bryan County – Robert Lee Williams Public Library

Photos:

p_c_image (1)
p_c_image (2)
p_c_image