History of Argyle Free Library

The history of a public library in Argyle reaches back to the early 19th century. The idea first took root in the hearts of Argyle residents who loved to read and valued the printed word, joining together to share the pleasures of reading with their community.

Records of incorporation for public libraries show that as early as 1805, there was an intention to establish an Argyle Library at the home of Pelag Bragg. His home, which also served as a tavern, stood at the corner of Main and Sheridan Streets—the site now occupied by Stewart’s.

In 1823, a certificate of incorporation was granted to the Argyle Social Library, housed at the home of Joseph Rouse. Rouse’s home, listed in historic records as an inn, stood on the property later occupied by the IGA store and its parking lot.

By the late 1800s and early 1900s, several reading circles had become active in Argyle. Books for one such group were kept at the home of Dr. Stillman on East Street, in the large house next to the former Grange Hall. Books were borrowed and returned informally, while other reading groups in town operated in similar ways.

By 1920, it became clear that the growing interest in reading would be better served by an official library. The Village Improvement Association played a key role in this effort, and the collections of the reading groups became the foundation of the new library’s holdings.

The office of the late Dr. Sill served as the first home of the Argyle Free Library. A provisional charter was issued, which became permanent in 1974.

In 1927, Cora Breason Mott and Anna Breason Gilchrist donated to the Library Association the building that still houses the library today, one of the oldest in the village.

During the 1950s, Mrs. Ralph McGeoch appeared on the television program Queen for a Day to request help for the library. Thanks to her efforts, the library received a new sign, drapes, and remodeling, which was completed in 1964.

In 1958, the Argyle Free Library became a charter member of the Southern Adirondack Library System (SALS).

By the 1990s, the library had again outgrown its space. Construction on a new wing began in 1994 and was completed the following year. The addition was formally dedicated on June 11, 1995.

Over time, the Argyle Free Library has grown from a single room heated by a wood stove and lit by a kerosene lantern into a modern, fully automated library. Today, it offers children’s programs, a meeting space, and computer access. Beyond its own shelves, the library connects patrons to the holdings of 57 other libraries, as well as thousands of eBooks and audiobooks online.

The steady growth of the Argyle Free Library reflects the community’s long-standing belief in the power of reading. Argyle residents have consistently shown that a strong community depends on a strong public library and they have always worked to make that vision a reality.

In the 21st century, libraries are more than book repositories; they are places of learning, connection, and innovation. They provide WiFi and public computers, and many now host makerspaces where patrons can learn new skills, from knitting to programming a Raspberry Pi. To continue meeting these needs, the Argyle Free Library once again faces the challenge of expanding so it can offer the most current and valuable services to the community. As in the past, the library will turn to the people of Argyle for support in this effort.

The Argyle Free Library’s history of service is its foundation. Its future is in your hands.