Bowden Public Library officially opened on October 29, 1955, in a room of the local hotel (rented for $15/month). Many books were donated, and more were bought with fundraising and grant money. By the end of 1955 the library boasted 1500 volumes, and had to move to a larger space in the Walter Sick Building in 1957.
In 1986, the first library board was formed. They succeeded in their goal of opening a small library the following year. The library was originally located in the back room of the village office, and in its first annual report it had twenty-eight members. In 1989, the library was moved into the converted fire hall adjoining the village office, and it remains there to this day.Thanks to the Alberta Community Facility Enhancement Program, the library had a much needed renovation in 2000. A bequest in 2003 enabled the board to convert the unfinished back room into an office and storage space, thereby creating room for a small children's area with new shelving.
The Castor Public Library Was Begun In The Late 1940S And Run By Volunteers From The Community. It Outgrew Its Initial Location On Main Street And Was Moved Into Space Above The Community Hall In 1954. Steep Stairs And Cramped Quarters Brought About Another Move In 1979 At The Invitation Of The Castor Golden Circle Building Committee. After Many Volunteer Hours Spent Boxing And Labeling Books, The Physical Move Was Accomplished By The Grade 12 Physical Education Class From Gus Wetter School.