08/28/2025
Michelle Lenamon, representing the McGinley Memorial Public Library, addressed the McGregor Rotary Club during our recent meeting. Her presentation highlighted the library's community-driven heritage and its unique transformation from the historic Ritz Theatre into a modern hub of learning and connection.
Michelle's presentation shines a spotlight on how a structure once dedicated to entertainment has evolved into a beacon of learning, culture, and history. The library’s story reflects McGregor’s resilience and devotion to community enrichment—qualities that resonate deeply with the mission of the Rotary Club.
A Story Behind the Building: McGinley Memorial Public Library
Historic Roots
The building at 317 South Main Street originally housed C.P. Shaffer’s “Implements, Wagons, and Buggies” business around the turn of the 20th century.
From Theatre to Library
In 1936, it was converted into the Ritz movie theatre. After a devastating fire in December 1946, it was rebuilt and reopened on April 2, 1947, featuring the film Love Laughs at Andy Hardy. During the grand opening, local businessman Harlan Huffman performed “America” for the gathered community.
Transformation into a Library
After the theatre closed in 1958, the McGinley family—Thom and Curtis McGinley’s children—donated the building to the McGregor Library Association. The auditorium's shell became the home of the McGinley Memorial Public Library, which officially opened in 1986. Impressively, the original balcony, complete with its vintage movie seats and two movie projectors, still remains.
Role & Services of the McGinley Memorial Public Library Today
Extensive Collection & Resources
The library houses over 17,000 materials, including 15,000+ books, 600 audiobooks, and 1,200 VHS/DVDs. It also offers large-print collections and access to the digital library through OverDrive/Libby.
Community-Oriented Services
Patrons enjoy amenities like seven public computers, Wi-Fi, printing, fax services, exhibits, and training sessions. Inter-library loans and participation in the TexShare card system enable broader access to regional libraries.
Engaging Programs & Passes
The library hosts storytimes, a summer reading program, and "First Friday" events with community art displays and StoryWalks. Patrons can also check out free museum passes for popular Waco attractions like the Cameron Park Zoo, Dr Pepper Museum, and Mayborn Museum.
Preserving Local History
The library is a contributing partner to The Portal to Texas History, where it's helped digitize and preserve the McGregor Mirror newspaper collection—a key local historical record.
