Knottsville Free Public Library

Origins and Formation

Originally, this was the St. William parish library until growth required a new building. The Knottsville Library Association was formed and a lot was secured for building of the library circa 1901 (Deed 73-131 for 1.25ac from Malvina U. Clements). The original cost to build was about $2,000, with all lumber and labor being donated.

The Library Building

The library was a two-story frame structure, 60 ft. x 30 ft., and stood on the lot which later held the first St. William School. This library housed nearly 2,000 bound volumes, 5,000 pamphlets and magazines, and 300 children's books in addition to a small museum.

Facilities and Use

The upper story contained a stage and accessories and was used for lectures, entertainments, and meetings of various kinds. The lower level housed the library as well as the museum, which covered one fourth of the wall and floor space. The property of this library represented a value of about $7,000. This was a result not of large contributions from a wealthy few, but small contributions of many.

Funding and Operations

Operated as a free public library, funds were raised for its operation through association membership dues of 50 cents per year or a $10.00 lifetime contribution by cash, work, or book donations. Funds were also raised through picnics, entertainments, and renting of the hall. A major benefactor of the library was Knottsville native William T. Ellis, who donated nearly 500 volumes nearing completion of the library. In 1911, the librarian was Mrs. Anna Hamilton.

Fire and Replacement

In 1926, the library burned and St. William School was built to replace it. The site is now a parking lot on the corner of Highway 144 and Monarch Road across the street from the church.

Sources

Source: First Biennial Report, KY Library Extension Division 1910-1911

Source: The Public Library Bulletin, No.1 Aug. 1901 - Jan. 1902