The first library in Texarkana was a collaborative effort. In the early 1900's the YWCA began a collection of books for the community use. In the 1920's with that collections as a beginning, a group of interested individuals began the work of establishing a public library. The City Federation of Clubs sponsored a fund drive and those contributing became charter members of the library association. The opening reception was held December 1, 1925 in the house at Seventh and State Line, the Henry Harper home. Here the library remained until 1950 when the citizens realized more space was needed.

In 1949 Texarkana Altrusa Club purchased government bonds to provide a nucleas of the building fund. In 1950 Junior League chose the proposed building as its major project. The Texarkana Garden Club adopted landscaping and beautification of the grounds, and with the cooperation of the two cities a new library was build in the James Bowie Park on State Line. In January, 1952, the modified Georgian designed library was opened. The library remained here until 1980.

On January 28, 1980 the present library was opened.