Lexington Public Library (Lexington, Ky.)

The Lexington Library Company (sometimes Association), was incorporated by the Kentucky state legislature in 1800. The company was formed of shareholders purchasing five-dollar shares and was the result of efforts begun in the mid-1790s to establish a collection to be used by Transylvania Seminary students. By 1800, however, the library's function was to serve the reading needs of its shareholders only.

A "free" public library was authorized by the legislature in 1898 and following a subsequent gift of $60,000 by Andrew Carnegie, the library company initially leased and subsequently donated its property and book collection to the Lexington Public Library. Carnegie monies were used to construct a library building, completed in 1905. The public library operated in this facility until 1989 when it moved to a newly constructed building. Four branch libraries and a bookmobile service were also provided by the library.

Acquisitions policy: The library does not actively solicit manuscript records or papers, but does accept donations of materials relating to the historical development of Lexington and Fayette County, Kentucky.

Samuel M. Wilson served the Lexington Public Library at various times as trustee, as secretary, and as treasurer.