2022 Annual Appeal
In 2023, the Red Hook Public Library will proudly celebrate 125 Years of service and commitment to our community.
What books and magazines were being loaned in 1898 when the best-selling War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells was first released? What activities were most popular in Red Hook when McKinley was president and the Spanish-American War began? It’s almost inconceivable to consider the number of books that have been read, the number of citizens that have been helped, the number of programs that have been enjoyed since the Red Hook Public Library first opened its doors. Just last year, we had more than 5,000 registered borrowers – more than the population of the town in 1898!
It’s unlikely the citizens of Red Hook, before the turn of the last century, could have imagined what the Red Hook Public Library would be like in the 21st Century. Today we have almost 50,000 visits per year. We repair and maintain our infamous octagonal building, and we host dozens of community programs throughout the year serving all segments of our population. We not only loan books but eBooks, audio and video recordings, machinery, and electronic equipment — even pool passes in the summertime. In fact, our total circulation in 2021 was over 88,000.
In 1898 our rent was $24/year and the librarian was paid $25/year. Needless to say, our expenses have gone up!
Today, the Red Hook Public Library is reaching out to our community to ask for your help to remain the vital community resource we have always been. To celebrate our 125 Years of service to the community, we encourage you to make a tax-deductible donation. This year, if you donate $1 for every year we’ve been in operation, ($125), you will be honored as a “Quasquicentennial Supporter” throughout our anniversary year! Whatever amount you can donate, your support goes a long way towards helping us serve others in the community who rely on us for recreation, programs and services, access to information, and quality materials.
Today the Red Hook Public Library is at the center of a vibrant community with a rich history and a bright future. We thank you for your continued support.
The Red Hook Public Library Board of Trustees
You can donate in person at the library, or by using the button or QR code below. Thank you!
