The large building in this 1942 photo at left was known as the Brown Block and was well over 100 years old when this photo was taken. The Warren Memorial Foundation owned the building and the Warren Library occupied a portion of it along with several other tenants. The Warren Foundation recognized a need to expand the library, and in 1942 the building was vacated and underwent a complete renovation. The original structure was reduced down to the first and second floors and designed as a colonial structure with dormers.The first floor was occupied by the library and included a large reading room, library racks, counter and office. The second floor was designed for storage but over the years it became a meeting and function room, later becoming available for rentals. The small building to the left of the Brown Block was Watson’s Paper City Diner at 493 Main St., and the building to the left of that was Watson & Brackett Plumbing at 495 Main St. Both businesses relocated and these buildings were demolished. Several years ago the Warren Library building was moved back onto a new foundation, renovated and expanded.
Research and photo courtesy of Mike Sanphy
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