Librarian Amy Cooper says, "The free library services is one of the county's greatest assets," but without matching funds the library will not meet its operating costs.
The renewal of the Library Levy on the November ballot provides access to information, technology, education and entertainment for many Calhoun residents.
"For most taxpayers, the cost will be less than a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread each year," Cooper said.
"It will not raise taxes beyond current levels," she said, indicating utilization has nearly doubled in the last four years.
"Your vote will keep the doors open and allow the library to offer books, magazines, newspapers, videos, music, Internet access, wi-fi, copies, notary services and the expansive history and genealogy room," Cooper said.
The library is utilized by community groups for meetings, and offers numerous programs like Summer Reading Rewards and Reading Bingo.
Examples of the annual cost to taxpayers: The owner of real estate or personal property valued at $40,000, the library levy costs $3.84; the owner of real estate or personal property valued at $50,000, the library levy costs $4.80; the owner of of real estate or personal property valued at $100,000, the library levy costs $9.60.
The Friends of the Library say the library is an important community resource for many families who do not have resources for their children.
"We're hopeful that county voters will continue to support the library," Cooper concluded.
A HISTORY OF CALHOUN LIBRARIES
By Bob Weaver
The small one-room schools had small libraries and the "new" Calhoun County High School records speak of a formal librarian as early as 1934.
Early library efforts include one started by
Godfrey L. Cabot in 1901, who "generously donated one hundred dollars for the benefit of the town library on the condition that the town raise a like amount."
A 1901 newspaper account said a literary club had already started a library in Grantsville, with $50 invested in books.
Another early effort to bring books to rural residents was the Alpha Regional Library bookmobile, which had scheduled stops at stores, post offices and schools in the county at Big Springs, Millstone, Arnoldsburg, Big Bend, Cabot Station, Mt. Zion, Orma and Minnora. The bookmobile project began in the early 1950's.
A formal public library was located in the courthouse in the 1950's, and had wide public appeal.
Chronicle editor Mary Ann Barrows took a picture in 1961 of a dilapidated building on Mill Street, which she said would be torn down and become the site of a "modern public library."
It was the site of today's modern public library.
The site was purchased by the library board, Nelle Hamilton, president; Mrs. Jean Pitts, secretary; Paul Gully, treasurer, with other board members Nora Burns, Corel Poling and W. O. Umstead.
Actual construction started on the current library in 1967 with the official dedication in 1968. Local businesses and individuals raised money for the 20% match for 80% federal dollars.
Contributions totaled $8,400, including the first $500 from the Grantsville Senior Woman's Club, who operated the first public library. The total cost of the project was $95,000.
This was a time when numerous civic organizations and businesses still existed in the community,with some of the donors listed: Calhoun Home Demonstration Council, Rubber Fabricators, Consolidated Supply, Grantsville Civic Club, R. C. Fleming, Grantsville Navy Mother's Club, Al and Pansy Baker, Grantsville Lions Club, Alfred B. Fersco Company, Grantsville Junior Woman's Club, Calhoun Insurance Agency, Gladys Stump, Frank Lee, Delbert and Jean Sears, Sally Yeager, West Virginia Telephone Company, State Construction and the Calhoun Chronicle.
Upon opening, the new library revealed a collection of 11,830 volumes, with "more books on the way."
In 1986 the effort to develop the second floor was made, a well utilized area that now includes West Virginia history in the Hamilton Room and Calhoun history in the Knotts Genealogy Room. The second floor includes two large meeting rooms with elevator access.
The Calhoun Public Library, over it's 42 year history, continues to make annual improvements, adding programs and services.
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