We all have a past

We all come to the present carrying our past with us, and this runs true with libraries as well. Some libraries struggle to overcome their past, whether it relates to a poorly designed building or badly worded policies, while others can never live up to their past "glory days". All of these issues have to be taken into account with any current library administration, the writer of this blog included.

For this reason, I am very grateful to have access to the history of the Linebaugh Public Library System. Linebaugh's Reference Supervisory Associate, Lisa Ramsay, has done an excellent job in providing a clear and concise history of our public library system, which you can read here. Linebaugh has much to be proud of, and even if we do struggle with a difficult name to pronounce and spell, we are happy to have the opportunity to share the great story behind that name. When he learned that his hometown had no public library, Henry T. Linebaugh gave $5,000 toward the establishment of that important institution. The only stipulation was that it be named after his mother, Mattie V. Linebaugh. So, we have her name to remember a son's love not only for his mother but for the value of libraries in a community.

Henry Linebaugh's initial donation was not to be the last, and in reading our history, we see other generous gifts of both time and money to make our library system what it is today. I'm grateful for every person who has given of themselves to enhance the work of the public library in our community. We have a great past and an amazing future ahead.