The mission of the Monroe County History Center is to collect, preserve, and present the genealogy, historical accounts, and artifacts of Monroe County in order to best depict the heritage & culture of the community. Housed within a historic limestone building initially erected as a Carnegie Library, the site has deeper roots as the location of early local educational establishments, including the Colored School, a segregated school for Black children during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Inside these walls, visitors can explore the vibrant history of Bloomington’s limestone industry, the evolving landscape of Monroe County’s transportation systems, the enduring legacy of local legends, from athletes to musicians, and an array of other captivating narratives. The Research Library offers a wealth of information on family genealogy and local history. Additionally, the History Center regularly hosts dynamic rotating exhibits, offering fresh perspectives and insights year-round.