Established in 1866, Lewis Library is the second oldest library in the State of Missouri and the oldest library building in continuous use west of the Mississippi.

The ground floor of the building was originally used as a lecture hall until the advent of radio and television. It also served as the first site of Lewis College, which opened in 1867 with 140 students. The college later moved to a larger building, but eventually closed its doors in 1891. The second floor of the library is essentially the same as it was at the time of Lewis College's closing, with several display cases and museum artifacts.

The original library was housed on the second floor of the present building. Two large tables and their chairs still remain from the original furniture. Also on the second floor, the original librarian desk can be seen. It was originally located in the outer room. Finally, hanging on the south wall is a portrait of Benjamin Lewis, the library's founder. Through the years, the lower floor has been used to roll bandages for World War II, hosted parties, receptions, plays and elections as Glasgow's Community Center, and celebrated the Glasgow High School Graduations on the main stage.