Readers
and information seekers can come to the Lowe Public Library, located at
40 Bridge Street across from the Shinnston Municipal Building, for
current bestsellers, for magazines, and for use of reference
materials. Being an affiliate of the Clarksburg-Harrison Public
Library and being supported by the West Virginia Library Commission
gives the library added opportunities for development.
A circulating and reference collection of over 10,000 volumes covers
the interests of all age groups. Adults can find the latest
fiction and non-fiction for recreational reading and informational
reading. A large paperback collection is available as well as a
collection of large-print books for the visually impaired and a record
collection.
The Children's Room provides books for the picture-book child, for the
beginning reader, and for the advanced junior reader. This
collection includes both fiction and non-fiction books as well as the
popular read-along kits for the younger child.
The library maintains three-year files of prominent magazines to use as
sources to supplement its recently updated and expanded reference
collection. An inter-library loan service greatly expands the
library's resources. Many public school and college students
avail
themselves of the services of Lowe Public Library.
In addition to the usual services expected from a public library,
several special services are available for a small fee during library
hours. A fax machine, a photo copier, and a notary are some of
these added services. During income tax season, both federal and
state tax forms may be obtained here, generally with no charge. A
used book sale is carried on continuously with the books coming from
various sources. Literacy volunteers use the library as a center
of instruction for those seeking this service.
In 1970, the Lowe family home was bequeathed to the Woman's Club of
Shinnston by Pearl Lowe Johnson for use as a library. The
Benjamin Lowe family acquired this property in 1877. As the years
passed, several additions were made by the family to increase the size
of the house.
Funds were needed to adapt the house to library use. In 1972,
mainly by public subscription, sufficient funds were raised to make the
conversion. Grants were received from the Benedum Foundation and
the West Virginia Library Commission to assist with the project.
During the renovation, retaining the charm of the home as much as
possible was uppermost in the minds of those overseeing the necessary
changes. On June 23, 1973, Lowe Public Library was dedicated and
opened for patrons. Finally the library had a permanent home!
The library is open five days a week and is open Monday from 11:30 am
to 7:00 pm. Tuesday
through Friday the
hours are 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. The library is closed on
Saturdays, Sundays, and all federal holidays. You'll be most
welcome at this friendly library in a friendly town. Come see us!
Source: Shinnston Area Development
Association