Library to celebrate 50 years in current location

By Toni Walker
news@steelcountrybee.com
DAINGERFIELD—In 1967, the Daingerfield Public Library moved into its current building. On Aug. 3, they are inviting the public to come join them as they celebrate 50 years in the location.
The earliest history of the Daingerfield Public library has it being formed in 1953 by a local civic club. Club members canvassed the town to collect donated books, and also served as librarians. That earliest library made its home in a small room inside the Morris County Jail.
It was in 1967 that the library moved into its current home. Local Civic clubs, including the Lion’s Club, Pandora Study Club, and Maia study Club, were instrumental in raising funds for the new facilities. The building’s dedication was official attended and conducted by former resident Marvin Watson, who served as Postmaster General under President Lyndon B. Johnson.
In a letter to the Economic Development Administration, dated Feb.28, 1972, then-librarian Karma O’Leary detailed many of the programs the library had set into place to serve the community. These included enrichment programs for the disadvantaged, children’s story hour, and discussion groups for adults.
“We certainly are pleased to reaffirm our commitment to continue and enlarge those programs which provide an area-wide service particularly for the low-income families which are in accord with the Daingerfield Positive Action Program,” said O’Leary in her letter.
In keeping with O’Leary’s statement, the library continues to offer a variety of programs to the community. From internet usage and printing capabilities for a minimal fee, to free summer programs, the library still shows their commitment to providing area-wide services and programs. The library offers story times and free educational programs during the summer, and also offers an annual Breakfast with Rudolph event for children.
Librarian Earline Walton invites the community to a come and go open-house on Aug. 3 beginning at 10 a.m. to celebrate the library 50 years.