History of the library
The library was founded in 1921 by Jean Walker Simpson, in memory of her father John Woodruff Simpson. Jean was 24 years old at that time. The building was originally a general store operated in the mid-1800’s by Jean’s grandfather, James Simpson, and later by Jean’s uncle George until he passed away in1913. Following her father’s death in 1920, Jean purchased the building and converted it from store to library. As her cousin, Mary Jean, so aptly noted: “It is still the old store. The difference now is that now instead of food and clothing, it is dispensing ideas and ideals.”
We are fortunate to have the following account written for Craftsbury’s bicentennial celebration in 1981 by Mary Jean Simpson. Her delightful and informative narrative is reprinted here as a Mary Jean’s Memory (PDF) with thanks to Mr. John West who is in possession the original copy.
Whether it’s playing ping pong after Sunday Services, gathering for girl scout meetings, or rehearsing Shakespeare, there are many wonderful stories of the library, past and present. If you have memories of the library you’d like to share, or know some of the library’s history, please consider filling out the form below.
We’d love to hear from you, if you too have a memory related to the Simpson…
Some pictures from the library's first year, 1921-1922
