The history of the Claverack Free Library stretches back nearly two centuries. In 1829, 25 forward-thinking neighbors each contributed five dollars to establish a “good library” for the people of Claverack.
The Claverack Library Society was formally organized in December of that year, and for many years its library and reading room were located in the Old Stone House, also known as the Studley House.
By the early 20th century, the library had its first dedicated public library building at the intersection of Routes 23B and 9H. An old store, which had once served as a post office, was converted for use as the library.
In 1931, New York State acquired the property as part of the widening of Route 9H, and the building was demolished. A new library was constructed on the northwest corner of Routes 9H and 23B.
Completed in late 1932, the small wood-frame building, with its distinctive Palladian window, served generations of Claverack residents. As the library continued to grow, a wing was added in 1951.
Then, in 2019, another chapter began.
After years of planning, fundraising, and construction, the library moved into the completely renovated former A.B. Shaw firehouse on Route 9H. The new 11,000-square-foot library provided space for expanded collections, a children’s room, teen space, local history room, and a community and cultural center.
From a “good library” created by a group of neighbors in 1829 to the library that serves Claverack today, its homes have changed, but the community’s commitment to having a library of its own has endured.
About the photographs: The three images show three chapters in the library’s history: its early 20th-century home in the former store and post office, the library completed in 1932, and the Claverack Free Library today.
Source: Claverack Free Library history.
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