In 1836 the Wisconsin territory legislature, located in Belmont, adoped a resolution to establish a public library. Congress provided $5,000 to fund the project. James Clarke, the editor of the local newspaper was appointed librarian. The library received funding for the first time from the state in 1851.

Berryman, John R., "The State Library of Wisconsin." Library Journal; Wisconsin Supplement vol. 21, 1896 p.177