Magnolia Library began in the height of the Depression in 1928 with WPA funds. Miss Annie Sparkman, assisted by Mrs. Mayme Simmons, was the first librarian at the Community Center location. She was paid in commodities initially. Later, she was paid $35 per month, a good salary in those days. In 1934, a room was provided in the Magnolia City Hall. Mrs Ester Carman became the librarian and the city took the responsibility to pay her salary, which was still $35 per month. A group of interested citizens spearheaded a drive for donations and purchased some of the best sellers of the day. They used a rent shelf for these books. As soon as the rentals paid for the books, they were able to buy more. In 1964 the library became part of the Pike-Amite Library System and Mrs. Annie S. Allen was the librarian, followed by Mrs. E.O. Smith. The present library on South Cherry Street was dedicated September 7, 1975. Mrs. George S. Lansing served as librarian at that time. The present day librarian is Ms. Edythe Lensing.