Closure of Miller Library Branch on June 30th Announced.

Permanent Closure of Miller Branch of the BLRL

We regret to announce the permanent closure of the Miller Branch of the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library. The closure of the branch will happen on June 30th, 2026. This difficult decision follows careful consideration of several key factors affecting our ability to continue operations at this location.

Over recent years, the BLRL has faced significantly increased operational costs at our nine branch locations. In addition, recent changes in property taxes have created an unstable funding environment. Most importantly, we have observed a steady decline in community visits to the Miller Library, reflecting broader changes in how the downtown areas are being used. Our statistics reflect the fact that many in the Miller area are visiting the larger BLRL branches in nearby towns, like the Library Branch in Mt. Vernon.

We deeply value the support and engagement of the Miller community throughout the years. The BLRL remains committed to serving our Miller patrons at other branches and through our digital resources. We encourage all community members to visit our other locations or explore our online offerings. The Library will operate the Miller Summer Reading Program (mostly at Miller Elementary School, similar to past years' SRC in Miller).  

Every member of the Miller Community is invited to get their Library Card and become a BLRL patron. All patrons of the BLRL are welcome at all branches across Barry and Lawrence Counties.  Your library services are never farther away than your computer or smartphone with apps like Libby that can deliver books right to your hands. We offer online library services that every patron can access 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support during this transition.

Sincerely,

Gina Milburn, Director

Barry-Lawrence Regional Library

213 6th Street

Monett, MO  65708

417-235-6646

ginamilburn@blrlibrary.org