1908 — 1976

With the advent of the Twentieth Century Keyport's growth rate slowed. (It was described in 1857 as the largest town or village in Monmouth County.) It was no longer a young, sea faring town. Marine commerce was declining as railroads and later trucks and cars took over as the major means of transportation. The thriving oyster industry ebbed away, to relocate in Long Island. Shipbuilding had peaked and the huge yards where the massive steamboats had been built were being replaced by manufacturers of smaller pleasure craft and fishing boats. The design and quality of many of these has been, and continues to be, highly regarded in boating circles.

But despite the fact that in 1900 Keyport was seventy years old, it continued to be a vital town with hope and promise for the future.

Keyport's first public library was opened on October 11, 1911, by the Keyport Improvement Association in a small room in a building on the corner of Main and Front Streets. In December, 1911, a Free Public Library Association was formed with a membership of 95. In 1912 the library had outgrown its small room and was moved to a three room apartment on First Street and the first regular librarian was engaged.

Photo Caption: A Prizewinner, Carnival, Key Port, N.J.