top of page


We’re Not Exaggerating–Springfield’s Weather is Weird
A closer look at the geographical, atmospheric, and geological causes for the uniquely varied weather of Springfield and the Ozarks.
Brandon Broughton
6 days ago


The Gillioz Theater Restoration
The Gillioz “Theatre Beautiful” brought the glitz and glamor of Hollywood to the center of Springfield when it opened in October 1926.
Madison Huffman
Sep 25


The Ozarks Spaceman: Buck Nelson in 10 Facts
An in-depth look at Buck Nelson, Missouri’s most infamous UFO contactee, and the stranger truth behind the legend.
Brandon Broughton
Sep 11


From Drawing Board to Darkroom: The Journey of Betty Love
As one of the first female cartoonists and newspaper photographers, Betty Love was a pioneer in local and national journalism.
Konrad Stump
Aug 21


R. Ritchie Robertson and the Boy Scout Band
Dr. R. Ritchie Robertson led the 440-member Boy Scout Band and turned a generation of boys into disciplined musicians and hometown heroes.
Landyn Block
Aug 7


The Shootout on the Square
On July 21, 1865, James “Wild Bill” Hickok and Davis Tutt exchanged fire on the Springfield square in what many cite as the first one-on-one shootout in American history.
Library Staff
Jul 21


Identifying Photographs in Your Family Collection
This guide examines the qualities of early photography to help researchers chronologically sort through their family photos.
Madison Huffman
Jul 10


Remembering the Battle of Gettysburg
Two Civil War veterans from Springfield described their experiences at the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg in 1913.
Michael Price
Jun 26


The Bottomless Well of Water Street
An investigative essay about forgotten infrastructure, civic origin, water, stone, research, and the thrill of (re)discovery.
Brandon Broughton
Jun 12


Images from the Brickyard: Bob Linder’s Indy 500
Springfield photographer Bob Linder recalls his experiences photographing the Indianapolis 500.
Michael Price
May 23


A Walking Tour of the Springfield National Cemetery
Learn about the Bailey Monument and the Springfield National Cemetery’s Civil War history during a walking tour on May 20.
Michael Price
May 1


Preserving the Ozarks Series 2025
Explore how the written word has helped shape Ozarks history and culture during this exciting annual series of programs.
Konrad Stump
Apr 18


Jack Drussa: Musician and Racing Pioneer
Jack Drussa was a member of Springfield’s famous Boy Scout Band and a race car driver in the early days of the Fairgrounds Speedway.
Michael Price
Apr 3


Beyond Boundaries: The Women Redefining Solo Travel
Nell Milligan and other pioneering female solo travelers defied societal expectations to explore the world on their own terms.
Landyn Block
Mar 20


The Country’s Best Newspaper Correspondent
Mary Elizabeth Mahnkey’s writings documented life in Taney County and defined her career as a rural newspaper correspondent.
Ben Divin
Mar 7


From the White House to the Ozarks: Presidents Who Visited Southwest Missouri
Whether for campaign rallies, dedication ceremonies, or times of tragedy, twelve presidents have visited the Ozarks.
Michael Price
Feb 17


Love in the Hollers: Courtship, Marriage, and Divorce in the Early Ozarks
Ozarkers of the past approached courtship, marriage, and divorce in ways that are at once surprisingly archaic and unexpectedly modern.
Brandon Broughton
Feb 10


Missouri History Through the Birdwatcher’s Lens
Missouri is home to a range of natural environments. The presence (or lack) of birds in these habitats tells a centuries-old tale of our imp
Claire Porter
Feb 7


Preserving Ozarks History Through Artifacts
A collaboration between Missouri State University and the Springfield–Greene County Library District showcases restored historical artifacts
Claire Porter
Jan 15


Searching for Santa
Thanks to a bit of holiday magic, Santa shows up in the most unlikely places. See where we’ve spotted him in our archives.
Claire Porter
Dec 21, 2024
bottom of page