Library History

Since its small beginning in 1965, the Claysburg Area Public Library has grown steadily.  Organized by Miss Pauline Dannels' High School Library Club and volunteers, the Library opened its doors to the public in November in one small, rented room in the oldest existing building in Claysburg at Mauk's Gas Station.  Since that day, the Library has become an integral part of its community and the surrounding area.

A small group of volunteers had a vision to make plans to establish a free library that would leave a legacy for their children and future generations.  Since its start in that small room with donated furniture and 1,200 donated books, the Library has grown along with the children who visited the Library through the years.

Inez Mauk, one of the original volunteers, was hired as Library Director.  In 1966, Mary Claar Cameron was hired part-time.  Then in July 1968, the Library expanded to two rooms, and two part-time employees, Linda Treese Black (clerk), and Marie Berkhimer (custodian) were employed.

Because of illness, Mrs. Mauk retired in January 1978, and Mrs. Donna Kay Mauk was employed as Library Director.  Kay resigned in September 1978, and Mrs. Carolyn Dively was hired as Director.

By summer 1980 the Library had outgrown the expanded space, and then in October 1980, moved around the corner to the Carlton Leslie Building, which provided double the previous space.  Proud of the new facility, the community showed its support by contributing over $5,000 in a door-to-door fund drive.  However, again by late 1981 the Library had outgrown this building.

At that time the Gazzara Building was donated by the Joseph and Mary Gazzara Family.  With funds donated by D. Emmert Brumbaugh, the building was completely renovated.  March was Moving Day with masses of volunteers.  The new building was opened to the public in April and dedicated on Sunday, September 12, 1982.  At that time, 17,000 cataloged items were available to the community. 

The Library continues to flourish.  Other past Library Directors are Sheryl McDonald, Louise Speck, Sandra L. Davis, and Jessica Ford Cameron.  Past Assistant Librarians include Susan P. Musselman, Pat Dodson, Linda Black, and Karen Smith.  Past Financial Secretaries include Janet Sollenberger, Carol Dively and Ronda Dively Dick.  Other former employees include Vera Gardner, Patty Barnett Claycomb, Donna Lightner, Viola Ferguson, Marie Berkhimer, Kay Gardner Burket, Deloris Burket, Jean Markley, Thelma Claar and Sara Walter.

To see more about other historical content of Blair County look at this link: http://www.liveblaircounty.com