The Knox Public Library has reached its momentous 75th anniversary! In 1935, the Junior Civic Club had a vision for a community library; today we see the fruition of their dream as the library has become a popular destination for all ages. Yet in the midst of this important milestone, the celebration must be tempered by the current economic distress, which has had a drastic effect on the library. Our direct state funding has been cut by 31.6% and the support for information resources available to the public and resource sharing between libraries has been cut by 74.1%. Individual contributions have also decreased. As a result, we've closed our doors for four hours each week on Friday afternoons. This also means fewer new books and CDs, and will affect the children's programs we provide, especially our popular summer reading program with 170 children reading over 3,500 books this past summer.
During the last year, we replaced six computers, two printers (mono and color), upgraded eight computers, and installed a new network server and backup, all made possible through a $5,000 PA Dept. of Community & Economic Development grant used as a local match for a Gates Foundation grant of $6,500. We've seen an 11% increase in usage, but maintaining this technology and the quality of service our patrons have counted on, is becoming difficult with a shrinking budget.
What value would you place on your public library? The price of one bestseller, a favorite children's book, a magazine subscription, or internet service for one month--all of these reach many individuals by providing immeasurable benefits and enjoyment.
Only your interest and financial support will enable our library to move forward.
Please mail your tax-deductible contribution to Knox Public Library, P.O. Box 510, Knox, PA 16232. No amount is too small. Thank you for your continued support.
Knox Public Library Board of Trustees
It all started back in 1934 when the members of the Knox Junior Civic Club decided to establish a library for the town of Knox. The Knox Library was opened March 1, 1935, occupying one modest second-floor room with service to 75 paid members and an inventory of 500 books. The library was open eight hours a week with Junior Civic Club members acting as volunteer librarians.
Over the years, the Knox Library became a Free Public Library with privileges extended to the surrounding vicinities, and a paid librarian was eventually hired. The library has an inventory of over 19,000 items, is open 41 hours per week, and offers a variety of other services.
Many things have changed since 1935, but the Knox Public Library's commitment to serving Knox and the surrounding areas remains the same.
"It is, after all not the few great libraries, but the thousand small ones, that may do the most for the people."
